My contract with Nigerians,by Buhari

...towards a better life for the people VOL. 25: NO. 62375

Very Nigerian moment 18

C M Y K

**

ONLINE | www.vanguardngr.com

THURSDAY, APRIL 2 , 2015

N150

My contract with Nigerians, by Buhari 5

2 — V anguard, THURSD AY, APRIL 2, 2015 Vanguard, THURSDA

C M Y K

Vanguard, THURSD AY, APRIL 2, 2015—3 THURSDA

C M Y K

4 — V anguard, THURSD AY, APRIL 2, 2015 Vanguard, THURSDA

C M Y K

Vanguard, THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2015—5

POCKET CARTOON

CERTIFICATES OF RETURN: Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, chairman, Professor Attahiru Jega (left); Presidentelect, Maj-Gen. Muhammadu Buhari (retd) (right); Vice President-elect, Prof.

Yemi Osinbajo (2nd right); and President-elect's wife, Aisha Buhari (middle), during the presentation of Certificates of Return to Buhari and Osinbajo by Jega in Abuja, yesterday.

My contract with Nigerians,

by Buhari •Says Jonathan has nothing to fear •I'll work for those who voted for and against me •Ours'll be a governing party, not ruling party •Boko Haram'll soon know the strength of our collective will

By Joseph Erunke, Jude Opara & Levinus Nwabughiogu

A

BUJA — THE President-elect, General Muhammadu Buhari (retd), yesterday, laid down a contract with Nigerians underpinned by a commitment to restore the dignity of all Nigerians irrespective of partisan considerations.

Buhari, who spoke in Abuja while receiving his Certificate of Return from the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, Prof. Attahiru Jega, pledged, as part of the contract, to frontally tackle societal malaises that had hindered the country ’s growth, among which he listed corruption, terrorism

and degradation of values.

Earlier in the wee hours of the day, Buhari had, while formally accepting his declaration as president-elect commended President Goodluck Jonathan for his sportsman-like disposition during the contest.

He spoke to hundreds of party supporters, who camped throughout the night in front of the party secretariat in anticipation of the declaration.

Buhari went along with his running mate, Prof.

Yemi Osinbajo, who also received his certificate of return as vice-president elect.

Ours'll be a governing, not ruling party

Speaking after he was

TAKE HEART

BY ELLA RANDLE

When you let go of perfection you will experience excellent outcomes— Take Heart Quotes

N

EWS flash life’s not perfect and nobody is perfect either, just let go of that unnecessary pressure.

As soon as you accept this you will find that you will lose the hesitation that has held you back in the past. You will learn to take risks where you would have held back with resistance.

With risk comes the chance of failure, but more importantly, a chance of greatness. Failure is part of the process when you take risks, but the more you can embrace and learn from it, the better off you’ll be in the long run.

What you do is noticed by others, whether you realise it or not. People are watching you, and what you do gives them an inspiring role model for growth and change.

This applies not only at work, but at home with setting an example for your children and family.

We all have a teacher or someone in our lives who inspire and motivates us to do more than we ever thought we could achieve.

given the certificate of return as president-elect, he said Nigerian people will no longer be treated by their leaders as subservient, adding that under his administration, there will no longer be ruling party because the APC will only be the governing party.

Corruption'll not be tolerated

On corruption, the president-elect said: “We shall strongly battle another form of evil that is even worse than terrorism —the evil of corruption.

Corruption attacks and seeks to destroy our national institutions and character.

By misdirecting into selfish hands funds intended for the public purpose, corruption distorts the economy and worsens income inequality. It creates a class of unjustly-enriched people.

“Such an illegal yet powerful force soon comes to undermine democracy because its conspirators have amassed so much money that they believe they can buy government.

We shall end this threat to our economic development and democratic survival. I repeat that corruption will not be tolerated by this administration; and it shall no longer be allowed to stand as if it is a respected monument in this nation.”

Jonathan has nothing to fear

Buhari, however, extended a hand of fellowship to President Goodluck Jonathan, saying

despite their differences during the campaign period he bears no grudges against him.

He said: “Despite the rancour of the elections, I extend a hand of friendship and conciliation to President Jonathan and his team. I hereby wish to state that I harbour no ill will against anyone.

“Let me state clearly that President Jonathan has nothing to fear from me.

Although we may not agree on the methods of governing the nation, he is a great Nigerian and still our president. He deserves our support and permanent respect by virtue of the office he has held. This is how an honourable nation treats its servants and conducts its affairs; and this is how Nigeria should be.”

I'll work for those who voted for and against me

He also reassured all and sundry that his government will not be biased against anybody on the basis of religion, tribe or ethnicity, promising that he will be a president for everybody including those who do not support his aspiration.

General Buhari said: “I pledge myself and our incoming administration to just and principled governance. There shall be no bias against or favouritism for any Nigerian based on ethnicity, religion, region, gender or social status.

"I pledge myself and the government to the rule of law, in which none shall be so above the law that they are not subject to its dictates, and none shall be so below it that they are not availed of its protection.

“You shall be able to go to bed knowing that you are safe and that your constitutional rights remain in safe hands. You shall be able to voice your opinion without fear of reprisal or victimisation.

"My love and concern for this nation and what I desire for it extend to all, even to those who do not like us or our politics. You are all my people and I shall treat everyone of you as my own.

"I shall work for those who voted for me as well as those who voted against me and even for those who did not vote at all. We all live under one name as one nation: we are all Nigerians.”

Boko Haram'll soon know the strength of our collective will

The former military head of state also commented on the insurgency that has ravaged parts of the country, promising that with the support of all Nigerians,

the common enemies of the country will be defeated.

He said: “Our nation wrestles many challenges including insecurity, corruption, and economic decline. I pledge to give you my best in tackling these problems.

"The good people of Nigeria, your obligation does not end with casting your ballot. I seek your voice and input as we tackle these problems. This will not be a government democratic only in form. It will be a government democratic in substance and in how it interacts with its own people.

“No doubt, this nation has suffered greatly in the recent past, and its staying power has been tested to its limits by crises, chief among which is insurgency of the Boko Haram. There is no doubt that in tackling the insurgency we have a tough and urgent job to do. But I assure you that Boko Haram will soon know the strength of our collective will and commitment to rid this nation of terror, and bring back peace and normalcy to all the affected areas. We shall spare no effort until we defeat terrorism.”

Thanks past leaders, others

The incoming president also thanked past leaders of Nigeria for their role in strengthening the country in times of crisis, just as he thanked members of the international community including President Barack Obama of the Unites States of America, the United Nations, the Commonwealth, the African Union and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) for their interest in the affairs of Nigeria.

Those who were present at the presentation ceremony included the chairman of the party, Chief John Oyegun; National Leader of the party, Asiwaju Ahmed Bola Tinubu; Governors Rochas Okorocha, Rotimi Amaechi, Adams Oshiomhole, Magatakarda Wamakko and Ibikunle Amosun of Imo, Rivers, Edo, Sokoto

and Ogun States respectively as well as other party chieftains.

Extends hand of friendship to Jonathan

Earlier, while speaking to party supporters after receiving news of his declaration as presidentelect, Buhari had said: “President Jonathan engaged in a spirited campaign and was a worthy opponent. I extend my hand of fellowship to him.

I look forward to meeting him soon as we plan the transition from one administration to another.

He will receive nothing but understanding, cooperation and respect from me and my team.

“The good people of Nigeria, answered the call of history. When the account of this fine moment is written, it will be said that it was the people themselves who led this nation to democracy.

“You stood in line patiently for hours in the sun, rain and then in the dark to cast your ballots. Even when the vote was extended to Sunday in some places, you still performed your civic duty. You did so peacefully. You voted with your heart. Your vote affirms that you believe Nigeria’s future can be better than what it is today. You voted for change and now change has come.

“I thank all Nigerians who have made this day possible."

zSee Buhari's acceptance speech on page 54.

Mr & Mrs

6—Vanguard, THURSDAY, APRIL 2 2015

ELECTION DAY CRIME

Magistrate wants dog charged along with owner

By Onozure Dania

L

AGOS—BEFORE Magistrate M. O. Tanimola granted a defendant bail at an Ebute Meta Chief Magistrate’s Court sitting at Oyingbo, yesterday, she demanded to know why the defendant's dog was not charged along with him.

A 24-year-old male fashion designer, Sunday Odeyemi, was yesterday arraigned before Magistrate M. O. Tanimola for allegedly loitering with the Alsatian dog and threatening voters during last Saturday ’s presidential election.

The police prosecutor, Adam Cusim, alleged that the defendant had on the day of the presidential election, at about 4p.m., along Jimoh Bus stop, Akowonjo-Egbeda, Lagos, conducted himself in a manner likely to cause the breach of the public peace by loitering around and using the dog to intimidate people at the polling booth at Jimoh Bus Stop.

He also alleged that his act was likely to cause harm or endanger human life.

However, the defendant pleaded not guilty to the charges, when they were read to him.

According to the prosecutor, the offence is punishable under Sections 166 (d) (h) and 249(1)(d) of the Criminal Laws of Lagos State of Nigeria, 2011.

His lawyer, Mr. Spurgeon Ataene, while applying to the court to grant the defendant bail, urged the court to release the dog, as it was a pet and could not be a threat to anyone.

Magistrate Tanimola, granted the defendant N50,000 bail, with one surety in like sum.

However, before the defendant was admitted to bail, Magistrate Tanimola had asked the police why the dog was not charged along with its owner.

She then ordered that the dog be discharged and handed over to the defendant’s relatives, who were in court during the arraignment.

The matter has been adjourned till April 23 for mention.

Hoodlums attack APC secretariat in Ekiti zParty fingers Gov Fayose, Police zAPC known for lies—GOVT

By Gbenga Ariyibi

A

DO-EKITI—FEW minutes after the celebration of Gen. Muhammadu Buhari’s (retd) victory at the polls, hoodlums invaded Ekiti State secretariat of All Progressives Congress, APC, yesterday, destroying no fewer than five vehicles.

When the hoodlums, reportedly armed, besieged the secretariat, members of the party fled.

Commenting on the development, Public Relations Officer of the party in the state, Taiwo Olatunbosun, accused Governor Ayodele Fayose and the Police of complicity in the attack.

According to him, the party had earlier got information that plans were being hatched by some top government officials

to prevent any celebration in the state.

He accused the governor of sending those he described as members of a killer gang after the party members with the intention of stalling the celebration of the party’s victory at the polls.

The APC spokesman said it was worrisome that hoodlums could attack the secretariat, even when the Divisional Police Officer of Ologede Police Station in Ado-Ekiti and some of his men were on guard to ensure that things did not snowball into violence during the procession.

He said the hoodlums brandished guns, cutlasses and axes, which forced party members and passers-by to flee in different positions.

He said those that perpetrated the nefarious act allegedly

came in three Hilux vans with government house plate numbers.

According to Olatunbosun, “we had few members left when they came because some of our teeming members, who held a peaceful victory procession were already leaving before they came. They shot at our secretariat.”

He said one Femi Ogunyeye (alias Akilapa), Basiru Ajagbe, Ayo Terrorist and Opeyemi Atiaro were the masterminds of the alleged crime.

He said: “We were aware that they were coming, but we never knew Governor Fayose could do anything funny because of the mood of the nation.

“Although we heard him boasting that he will not allow anyone to mark the victory of Buhari in Ekiti State.”

However, Chief Press

Secretary to Governor Fayose, Mr. Idowu Adelusi, dismissed the allegation, saying APC had invented a catalogue of lies to create the impression that the state was in a crisis.

Adelusi said Fayose had no killer squad, accusing the immediate past government of running a killer squad.

He added that no fewer than 10 prominent indigenes of the state were allegedly killed during Fayemi’s regime.

The Commissioner of Police, Mr. Taiwo Lakanu, who confirmed the attack, said: “We received information that APC headquarters in Ado-Ekiti was being attacked “I deployed a team of police there led by Assistant Commissioner of Police and they succeeded in flushing out the miscreants that came to carry out the act.”

With the Holy Week, when some Christians do not eat meat, snail business is booming at Oyingbo M a r k e t , Lagos. NAN PHOTO.

Police arrest Owo bank robbery suspect in Edo

By Simon Ebegbulem

B

ENIN—EDO State Police Command, yesterday, paraded 24 suspected kidnappers, cultists and armed robbers, including one Etopa Sadiq, who was alleged to have participated in last week’s attack on some banks and police stations at Owo, Ondo State.

The command also disclosed that eight persons were arrested during the last Saturday ’s presidential and National Assembly elections, saying the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, would prosecute them.

Sadiq was arrested with bullet wounds around Ibillo in Akoko Edo Local Government Area of the state after a gun battle with policemen.

The state's Police Commissioner, Samuel Adegbuyi, who paraded the suspects, said his men engaged the robbers in a shootout at Ibillo, after a tip-off.

The commissioner said the robbers fled when they felt the superior fire power of his men, abandoning their arms and ammunition.

Items recovered from them include 32 AK-47 magazines, three LAR rifle magazines, seven TO6 rifle magazine, 23 tear gas canisters, three boxes of ammunition, 12 rounds dummy cartridges, 23 live ammunition, three police crash helmets, one set of police uniforms, among others.

He added that efforts were on to arrest the fleeing robbers.

However, the suspect denied

involvement in the Owo bank robbery operation, claiming he

was arrested while travelling through Ibillo.

Man, 23, docked for phone theft

By Bartholomew Madukwe, Victor Ogunsola & Echewodo Jane

T

HE police in Lagos yesterday charged a 23year-old man, Damilare Oshikoya, before an Ikeja Magistrate’s Court in Lagos for allegedly robbing one Chinyere Nwanko of her blackberry touch, Nokia asha, handbag and N110,000.

Oshikoya was said to have committed the alleged offence at Field Powerline Odogunyan, Ikorodu, Lagos.

However, when the charge

was read to the accused before Magistrate Abimbola Komolafe, he pleaded not guilty.

According to the prosecutor, Inspector Eranus Nnamonu, the offence is punishable under Section 295 of the Criminal Laws of Lagos State of Nigeria 2011.

Magistrate Komolafe granted the accused bail in the sum of N100,000 with blood related surety that is to show evidence of tax and verifiable address.

The matter was adjourned to April 30.

Vanguard, THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2015—7

FACES OF CELEBRATION: One of the boys smoking Indian hemp at the rally to celebrate General Muhammadu Buhari's victory at Gani Fawehinmi Park, Ojota, Lagos, yesterday. PHOTO: Bunmi Azeez.

Left: All Progressives Party, APC, supporters in Lafia, Nasarawa State, yesterday. NAN PHOTO.

25 die, others injured celebrating Buhari’s victory

By By Henry Umoru, Wole Mosadomi, Abdulsalam Muhammad & Peter Duru

K

ANO—NO fewer than 25 persons died in Abuja, Kano, Makurdi and Kontagora yesterday, while celebrating the victory of President-elect, General Muhammadu Buhari (retd).

While 17 of the victims died in Kano, four died in Abuja, three in Kontagora, Niger State and one in Makurdi, the Benue State capital, while several others sustained injuries.

However, police authorities in Kano claimed only seven bodies of unknown person were discovered by their men after the celebration, Tuesday night.

An eyewitness, Ali Sufi of Naibawa quarters said three people were crushed to death at Naibawa U-turn, when a man in a Toyota Camry car lost control and rammed into those celebrating.

Sufi, further disclosed that one Sabo Ali, an ad hoc staff of communications giant, Etisalat, lost his life alongside his friend when a reckless driver knocked them down at Ungwa Uku end of Zaria Road within Kano metropolis.

Late Ali’s guardian, Mallam Idi Naibawa, confirmed that Sabo died yesterday morning at Malam Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital from injuries he sustained in the accident.

Idi Naibawa explained that “a good Samaritan, who identified Sabo’s motorcycle reported the accident, and our fear was confirmed at Yarakwa police station that rescued and took him to the hospital.

“We have accepted his death as a fulfilment of destiny and barring any hitch, Sabo would be buried before 5p.m. local time today (yesterday).”

Another resident of Naibawa quarters, Ibrahim Dogo, said that two teenagers were crushed to death along Zaria Road by a crazy driver.

Dogo said: “We received two dead bodies this morning at the Tiga Naibawa quarters and we are set to bury them.”

Reports from Hotoro also confirmed the death of six youngsters during the crazy celebration that engulfed the commercial city.

According to a resident, Masaud Badamasi, “we lost six boys to the crazy celebration last night and we are getting ready to give then a heroic burial.”

Vanguard further learned that two persons lost their lives at Bachirawa/Kurna axis of the city, while report from Gwarzo local government indicated that two people were crushed to death by a motorist.

Kano State Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Magaji Majia, said: “We discovered seven dead bodies of unknown persons on the streets after the celebration and investigations has commenced on how and why it happened.”

He said the development had forced the command to sponsore radio jingles to sensitize the city dwellers on how to go about the victory dance.

The police spokesman revealed that Divisional Police Officers had been mandated to monitor the celebrants to minimize casualty, while victory dance lasts.

Acrobatics in Makurdi

In Makurdi, Vanguard learned that the victims were among youths in Wadata and North Bank area, who since the announcement of the election results, had been engaged in dangerous acrobatic displays with their motorbikes around the town.

According to a source, the unidentified youth met his death at North Bank, when he fell off his motorbike in one of his displays and gave up the ghost before he could get medical attention.

The source said: “Since the announcement of the presidential results, most of the youths took over the streets, many of them that have motorbikes removed the

mufflers of their bikes in other to generate much noise as they rode dangerously in the streets.

“Unfortunately, one of them fell off his bike, broke his neck and eventually died before he could get medical attention.

“The other two sustained injuries in similar circumstance, but were lucky to have survived the crash and are presently receiving treatment in a private hospital in the area.”

At press time, youths were still in the streets at Wadata and North Bank areas, celebrating the victory with many of them still displaying dangerously with their motorbikes.

Eyewitness account said the four who died in Abuja lost their lives while trying to climb the Lugbe Pedestrian bridge by Julius Berger junction with their motorcycles and fell.

Several others sustained injuries.

In Kontagora, Niger State, the Commissioner of Police, Mr. Olusola Amore, confirmed that three supporters of All Progressives Congress, APC, were crushed by a motorist, while jubilating on the highway.

Fire scare at Lagos airport

By Lawani Mikairu & Daniel Eteghe

T

HERE was pandemonium yesterday at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, MMIA, Lagos, following a fire scare at the terminal building.

Vanguard gathered that there was smoke at E-finger around 1p.m. close to NDLEA office, which spread to the arrival hall.

The situation further disrupted flights operations at the airport as passengers on long queues

for check-in, scampered for safety and ran out of the terminal building.

Passengers were seen in their numbers standing outside the terminal building to avoid the suffocating effects of smoke from.

Vanguard also learned that most of the passengers on an Emirates airline flight that landed at 1pm could not get their passports stamped, while an incoming Qatar Airways flight was diverted to D-finger.

On ground to attend to the

emergency were Lagos State Fire Service, FAAN fire Service, Police Airport Command and ambulances.

Mr. Yakubu Dati, General Manager, Corporate Affairs, FAAN, said what happened was a minor spark and subsequent smoke.

He said: “The authority wishes to assure the travelling public and other airport users that there was no immediate danger to anyone from the incident, neither did it affect flight operations at the terminal.”

Residents attack police over suspected kidnapper's den in Oyo

By Ola Ajayi

I

BADAN—THERE was sharp disagreement between the police and some residents of Adekile area of Ibadan yesterday, following reports of a discovery of a new kidnappers’ den in the city.

Though the police have dismissed the reports saying it was a false alarm, the residents insisted that the police did not search the suspected house very well.

According to information gathered, residents in the area made a distress call to the police that another kidnappers’ den had been discovered in a man’s house in the area.

The information had it that there were two wells dug behind the house where the bodies of those kidnapped were dumped, but when police officers got there, they could not find anything.

The inability of the police to discover the den was said to have sparked heated argument, which resulted in the attack on a policeman.

One of the residents said: “The police were invited to come and search a property at Adekile area.

“Some people suspected that the owner of the house has three wells behind his house where he allegedly dropped bodies of those used for ritual purposes.

The police went there, but could not find anything.”

8 — Vanguard, THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2015

World leaders congratulate Buhari, laud Jonathan

...As Mrs Jonathan congratulates Aisha Buhari

By Abiodun Alade

P

R E S I D E N T- E L E C T General Muhammadu Buhari has been receiving congratulatory messages from world leaders among who are the leaders of The United Kingdom, UK, France, Rwanda, Somalia and Niger Republic.

In their separate messages, former British Prime Minister Tony Blair, President Francois Hollande of France, Hassan Sheikh Mohamoud, Rwandan leader Paul Kagame and Prime Minister of Niger, Mahamadou Issoufou congratulated General Muhammadu Buhari on his victory and Nigerians for conducting a credible election that would ensure a peaceful transfer of power from one elected administration to another.

Among those who visited to felicitate with General Buhari in Abuja on Wednesday were former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, former Vice President and chieftain of APC, Atiku Abubakar and his wife Hajiya Titi Abubakar and the US Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs, Linda ThomasGreenfield and accompanied by US Ambassador to Nigeria, Ambassador James Entwistle, among others.

They all pledged their support and commitment to ensuring the success of the Buhari administration and for better relations between their countries and Nigeria.

Blair thumbs up Jonathan for conceding defeat

Mr Tony Blair, in a statement

by Rianne Buter, his Senior Media Manager, congratulated Gen. Muhammadu Buhari (retd) on his victory and also hailed incumbent president Goodluck Jonathan for conceding defeat.

Mr Blair also applauded “Nigeria’s strength and resilience as a country”.

He said, “I congratulate Muhammadu Buhari warmly on his election victory. I welcome wholeheartedly the statement from President Jonathan conceding the result. I also applaud the Nigerian people. It is an extraordinary sign of Nigeria’s strength and resilience as a country that there has been this election with its outcome accepted so clearly despite all the challenges Nigeria faces. It gives all of us who care about Nigeria great optimism and confidence in its future”.

...Obama too

US President Barack Obama has also praised President Goodluck Jonathan for conceding defeat in an election that he said showed “Nigeria’s

Jonathan, Patience, has formally congratulated her successor, Hajia Aisha Buhari, wife of the President-elect on her husband’s victory during the Saturday’s presidential election.

In a statement by her media aide, Ayo Adewuyi, Mrs. Jonathan appealed to Nigerian women to support Mrs. Buhari in order to succeed in her new job.

Part of the statement: “The First Lady Dame Patience Jonathan (Mama Peace) has congratulated the wife of the President-elect, Hajia Aisha Buhari on the election of her husband, General Muhammadu Buhari.

“The First Lady appeals to the Nigerian women to work with Hajia Aisha Buhari and give her the maximum support to make her succeed in her new assignment.

“The First Lady (Mama Peace) wishes her well in her new task.”

Mo Ibrahim commends Nigerians

Sudan-born international businessman and chairman of the Mo Ibrahim Foundation, Dr Mo Ibrahim has commended Nigeria VISIT: President Goodluck Jonathan receiving the European Union Ambassador to Nigeria, and President Goodluck Jonathan Amb. Michel Arrion, while the European Union Chief Observer, Santiago Fisas (r) and the on the outcome of last Saturday’s Deputy Chief Observer, Hannah Roberts watch during a visit by the European Union Elections presidential election.

Observer Mission to the Presidency at the State House, Abuja. Photo by Abayomi Adeshida.

In a statement issued in London yesterday, Dr Ibrahim said that “the news from Nigeria today is commitment to democratic through elections in the country. Buhari, rtd, for emerging wonderful,”adding that all principles.”

He promised to work with the victorious in the election.

Africans, by the development, “are Obama, in a statement issued international community to restore Senator Ekweremadu in his all proud of Nigeria and President from the White House said, Nigeria’s full commitment and reaction commended President Jonathan.”

“President Jonathan has obligations to the international Goodluck Jonathan for conceding The statement reads in full: placed his country’s interests system “The news from Nigeria today victory to General Buhari, noting first by conceding the election that such “unprecedented show is wonderful. Africa’s largest This is democracy, of statesmanship had gone a country has concluded a peaceful and congratulating presidentelect (Muhammadu) Buhari Nigeria’s finest moment long way in rewriting the history election process. Furthermore, the —Tinubu on his victory. I look forward of the nation’s democracy and incumbent has already gracefully The National leader of the All ensuring post-election peace and conceded and congratulated his to working with President Jonathan throughout the Progressives Congress, APC security of Nigeria.” successor – a first for Nigeria and remainder of his term, and I Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu has According to him, “Whichever a benchmark for other African thank him for his many years described the victory of the way we look at the 2015 countries to follow. of service and his presidential candidate of the presidential election, the real “Today, we Africans are all proud statesmanlike conduct at this party, Gen Muhammadu Buhari winner is Nigeria, and the of Nigeria and President critical juncture. The last few as Nigeria’s finest moment in greatest beneficiaries are Jonathan. days have shown the world the political history.

“Thank you Mr President. If you Nigerians and our democracy, Reacting to the victory of the especially our electoral system. strength of Nigeria’s are seeking a legacy, you have commitment to democratic candidate in last Saturday’s polls, “I congratulate General Buhari definitely achieved it.” the former governor of Lagos State who no doubt has the experience, principles,” Obama said.

It will be recalled that Dr According to Obama, “by said: “It is a moment when hope popular support, and goodwill to Ibrahim, a telecoms engineer turning out in large numbers is re-born, faith is rekindled and continue with the transformation and businessman, did business and sometimes waiting all day a fresh fire of patriotism is process, and commend President in Nigeria when his company to cast their votes, Nigerians released for the task ahead. I Goodluck Jonathan for not only bought over Vee Networks and came together to decide the congratulate General Buhari, bequeathing the legacy of renamed it Celtel Nigeria. future of their country Nigeria’s President elect on his reformed electoral process, but Celtel was later in turn acquired hard won victory. peacefully. also leading by example in the by Zain, another GSM network “I salute our gallant party quest for the post-election owned by Gulf investors, which “I urge president-elect Buhari and President Jonathan leaders and members for running stability, peace, security, and again was taken over Bharti to repeat their calls to their the long distance to victory. To harmony of Nigeria.”

Airtel of India, owned by supporters to continue to millions of Nigerians I say thisHe commended Nigerians, business magnate, Sunil Bharti. respect the election outcomes, the APC seeks not power for its whom he said, had “proved the In 2005 after Dr Ibrahim sold focus on unifying the country, sake, but for the purpose of prophets of doom wrong and Celtel for $3.4 billion, he set up and together lead Nigeria bringing a better life to our people reaffirmed their commitment to the Mo Ibrahim Foundation to through a peaceful transition”. and re-building our country. the peace and unity of the encourage better governance in “This is also democracy’s finest Nigerian nation.”

Obama also praised Africa.

Nigeria’s Independent moment. Nigerians alive today He also set up the Mo Ibrahim The Deputy Senate President National Election Commission have witnessed the beginning of in his reaction contained in a Index to evaluate governance in (INEC) and its chairman, an era of change. They made this statement signed by his Special African nations, and in 2007 which he said “deserve special happen and they are the true Adviser, Media, Uche created the Mo Ibrahim Prize for recognition for what celebrants and they are deserving. Anichukwu said, “Nigeria is Achievement in African “Together we share this victory. bigger than everyone of us, and Leadership, which awards a $5 independent international observers have deemed a Side by side we would work we must all rise beyond all million initial payment, and a largely peaceful and orderly together to bring our country political, ethnic, religious, and $200,000 annual payment for life back.” vote.” sectional differences to support to African heads of state who In his response to the various the incoming administration to deliver security, health, Ekweremadu leaders, General Buhari thanked education and economic move Nigeria forward.” the international community for congratulates Buhari development to their Deputy Senate President, Ike working with Nigerians in constituents and Dame Jonathan has also congratulates Aisha Buhari democratically transfer power providing the atmosphere that Ekweremadu helped to bring about change congratulated Gen. Muhammadu Wife of President Goodluck to their successors.

Vanguard, THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2015 — 9

SENATE PRESIDENCY South East may lose out as APC shops for President ...Saraki, Akume, Mark in contention for nation's no 3 top post

By Soni Daniel, Regional Editor, North & Johnbosco Agbakwuru

A

BUJA—FOLLOWING the release of the results of National Assembly elections held last Saturday by the Independent National Electoral Commission, indications have emerged that the South East Geo-Political Zone may have lost the opportunity to produce the next Senate President of Nigeria.

The Zone did not vote for any candidate of the APC in the last election, thereby shutting out itself in the reckoning for such a post.

From the results posted by the INEC, the South East neither returned any of its APC senators nor voted for any politician to emerge on the APC platform. It was learnt that the non-availability of any ranking APC Senator from the region to take the slot of Senate President might compel the party to zone the slot to the North Central, where the current Senate President, David Mark hails from.

Although Mark would have emerged the best choice given his rich background and experience, his membership of the PDP, which will now be in the minority in the next Senate, knocks him out of the reckoning for the post. APC has won no fewer than 65 seats in the last NASS election pushing PDP with 45 Senators to the second position in the upper legislative chambers.

But there was unconfirmed

report on Wednesday that Mark was being pressured by political interests to defect to the APC after the inauguration of the National Assembly in order to retain his post, a claim dismissed by sources close to the Senate President as mere rumour.

The source told Vanguard that it was not possible for any Senator to decamp to any other party until after being sworn in.

The source said: “The truth of the matter is that you cannot decamp to any party after election until you are sworn in.

It is not an issue now and I don’t think that anybody

should contemplate that at all and even the opposition party will not even welcome you.

No way for Mark —APC chieftain

But an APC chieftain told our correspondent on Wednesday that it was not possible to concede the Senate Presidency to Benue State after it had occupied the post for eight years through David Mark.

The official said that there was no way APC would accept Mark as its Senate President since there were many qualified Senators from other states in the North

Central to occupy the post.

It was learnt that given the absence of any ranking APC Senator from the South East or South South, the APC would still retain the Senate Presidency in the North Central but pick the Senate President from another state outside Benue.

Former Kwara State Governor and Senate Chairman on Environment, Dr. Bukola Saraki, is being considered for the top post.

But if the party keeps the post in Benue, the current Senate Minority Leader, George Akume, is likely to emerge as the Senate President.

BRIEFING: National Security Adviser, Alhaji Sambo Dasuki (left) with the Chief of Defence Staff, Air Chief Marshal Alex Bade (2nd l)eft and other Service Chiefs as they emerged from a security briefing of President Goodluck Jonathan at the State House, Abuja. Photo by Abayomi Adeshida.

UN tasks int'l community on war against Boko Haram

T

HE UN Human Rights Council yesterday unanimously adopted a resolution calling on the international community to step up support to African countries fighting Boko Haram militants, ac-

cused of a litany of atrocities.

The resolution urged the international community “to provide more active and multifaceted support for Cameroon, Chad, Niger, Nigeria and other states

affected by actions of the terrorist group Boko Haram.”

High-level Nigerian foreign ministry official Danjuma Nanpon Sheni however stressed to the council that his country could not

Ambode urges Lagosians to vote for continuity

A

LL Progressives Congress, APC, governorship candidate for Lagos state Mr Akin Ambode has commended the people of Lagos for voting out the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the last presidential election.

In a statement yesterday, Ambode explained that the concept of change which started in Lagos has found its way to the national level with the unprecedented success of the All Progres-

sive Congress (APC) in the presidential election where an incumbent had been defeated. He argued that the APC deserves to continue to consolidate on her excellent performance in Lagos in spite of the hostility of the Federal Government in past 16 years. He said that with the support of the new government at the federal level controlled by the APC the party would achieve a lot.

He urged Lagosians not to relent but to come

out en mass on April 11 to vote for APC in Lagos in order to complete the cycle of excellence.

According to him, “Lagos must be the first partaker of the massive support of the APC Federal government that she has been denied by the PDP. The people of Lagos would recall the way the PDP federal government “punished” Lagos for creating the 37 Local Council Development Areas by withholding the allocation due to the state."

fight the militants on its own.

“We are dealing with faceless monsters,” he said.

African Union representative Pierre Buyoya also warned that “the terrorist group is more than a regional threat, it is also a global threat.”

“Countless more children, women and men have been abducted, abused and forcibly recruited, and women and girls have been targeted for particularly horrific abuse, including sexual enslavement,” he lamented.

“This despicable and wanton carnage, which constitutes a clear and urgent menace for development, peace and security, must be stopped,” Zeid said.

Cameroonian Foreign Minister Pierre Moukoko

Mbonjo told the council his country had been under attack by the militants for nearly a year.

Boko Haram’s “massive” crimes “deserve to be condemned in an unequivocal manner,” he said.

Chadian Justice and Human Rights Minister Mahamat Issa Halikimi agreed, describing the Islamist group as “a relentless enemy who lets nothing get in the way of its objective to destabilise our countries.”

Wednesday’s resolution, which was presented during a rare special council session, called on the international community to, among other things, support the African Union’s five-nation Multinational Joint Task Force fighting Boko Haram militants, by providing technical assistance.

Investors gain N805bn in one day as capitalisation hits 10.7trn

By Babajide Komolafe & Peter Egwuatu

T

HE Nigerian stock market yesterday recorded massive appreciation following the peaceful conclusion of the presidential election with investors gaining N805.435 billion.

The Nigerian Stock Exchange, NSE, market capitalisation moved from N10.717 trillion to close yesterday at N11.620 trillion. The market capitalisation represents the total value of shares traded on the exchange. In the same vein, another stock market gauge jumped by 8.3 per cent to close at 34,380.14 points from 31,744.82 points.

Meanwhile, the nation’s currency, naira, appreciated by N3 against the dollar in the parallel market in two days due to fall in demand. From N214 per dollar last week Friday, the naira exchange rate fell steadily to N211 per dollar at the close of business yesterday.

Aminu Gwadabe, Managing Director/ Chief Executive, Sabil Bureaux De Change and Mr. Harisson Owoh, Managing Director, H.J Trust Buearux De Change, attribute the appreciation of the naira to fall in the demand.

Itsekiri hold carnival in Lagos

O

TU-OMA Iwere Cultural Society of Nigeria, Lagos branch, will celebrate its 21st annual masquerade carnival from tomorrow till Sunday, at Amodu Tijani Street, off Tolu Bus Stop.

In a statement by Mr. Wilkie Bright, Chairman of the society, Mr. Sam Amuka, Publisher of Vanguard Newspapers, will be Father of the Day, while Chief Rita Lori-Ogbebor will be Mother of the Day. Powered by Vanguard newspapers, the carnival will feature Umale cultural displays

by Itsekiri communities and guest clubs from all over Lagos State.

10— Vanguard, THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2015

A

By Gbenga Ariyibi

DO EKITI—BARELY 24 hours after the Independent National Electoral Coimmission has announced Major General Mohammodu Buhari winner of the presidential election,16 out of the 19 APC lawmakers in Ekiti State yesterday stormed the assembly with an attempted bid of commencing a parliamentary session The lawmakers came just as the seven PDP lawmakers led by the factional leader, Hon. Dele Olugbemi were holding session with his group at the assembly.

It may be noted that the 19 APC lawmakers have not been sitting in the House since November last year ,while the embattled Speaker ,Hon Adewale Omirin and his group had been moving from one state to another.

The APC lawmakers arrived the complex at about 11.50am and went straight to the conference room where they started with a praise and worship session.

After the opening prayer by Ogundele Folorunso (Efon Constituency), Omirin asked newsmen to leave the room.

About 10 minutes after, the lawmakers came out of the complex to address newsmen.

On why they have not been in the complex since November last year, Omirin said it was not compulsory that they performed all their official duties inside the Assembly complex.

“We have been attending to our official duties since. For instance, I have been attending the Conference of Speakers and I attended one recently. Also, we have been performing our duties, as our duties are not limited to parliamentary and plenary sessions.

“You should not be surprised that we are here, this is our office and we are coming to perform our duties. A lot of issues will be unfolding in the next few days. We will continue to resume here and perform our duties,” he said.

On whether the APC lawmakers were not taking advantage of the recent victory of its presidential candidate, Gen. Muhammadu Buhari, Omirin denied such.

“It is a mere coincidence that we are here now to hold our parliamentary session now. We have said earlier that we will not abdicate our responsibilities and nobody can stop us from doing that,” he said.

Asked what would be the next line of action of his group, Omirin said events would be unfolding soon.

While Omirin and his group were about leaving, a team of armed policemen, led by the Assistant Commissioner of Police, Operations, stormed the Assembly Complex and engaged the lawmakers in a shouting match.

The ACP, who wore a bullet proof vest that covered his name tag, urged the lawmakers to do everything according to the dictates of the constitution.

He said the police learnt that the issue on the leadership crisis was in court, and asked the lawmakers to leave.

Ambode thanks Lagosians on Buhari

L

CELEBRATION: South West coordinator, Buhari/Osinbajo Presidential Campaign, Governor Rauf Aregbesola (2nd right), his wife, Sherifat (right), former Governor of Osun State, Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola, and Osun State Deputy Governor, Mrs. Tit LaoyeTomori, during the celebration of Gen. Muhamadu Buhari’s victory in last Saturday's presidential election, at Nelson Mandela Freedom Park, Osogbo.

Police seal off Ekiti Assembly as 16 APC lawmakers return While Omirin was explaining the situation to him, some of his colleagues were interjecting.

Omirin and his group left at about 12.10 pm.

The Commissioner of Police, Ekiti State Command, Taiwo Lakanu, later arrived the scene and ordered his men to cordon off the entire complex.

It was this point that Olugbemi came out to challenge Lakanu on why he should order the closure of the

complex.

“We are all Nigerians and we are doing our official duties here.

I don’t think there is any need for the closure of his Assembly Complex. We can handle the matter,” he said.

Lakanu, however, said the order for the closure of the complex was from above and that the police would not wait and allow a breakdown of law and order in the state.

Meantime, the state

government has said that it imposed a dusk-to-dust curfew in the state to prevent loss of lives and properties of the people of the state According to the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr Idowu Adelusi the state government decided to impose the curfew so as to prevent the hoodlums from taking advantage of the political scenario to wreak havoc in the state

Court stops AIT from further broadcast of Lion of Bourdilion

By Abdulwahab Abdulah & Bartholomew Madukwe

I

KEJA—AN Ikeja High Court presided by Justice Iyabo Akinkugbe yesterday granted an order of interlocutory injunction restraining the African Independent Communication, AIT, from further broadcasting the documentary ‘Lion of Bourdilion’, which allegedly presents wrong impression of the National Leader of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu.

“I hereby order an

interlocutory injunction in this suit restraining the defendant from further airing, publishing or disseminating broadcasting the documentary ‘Lion of Bourdilion’ which it started broadcasting on March 1, pending the determination of the substantive suit,” the judge said.

Ruling on an application brought before the court by Tinubu’s counsel, Chief Wole Olanipekun, the judge held that the interlocutoty injunction was pending the determination of the substantive N150 billion libel suit filed by the former Lagos State governor against Daar

Communications Plc, owners of AIT. The judge pointed out that the continued airing of the documentary titled “Lion of Bourdilion”, would affect the rest of the suit which was the reputation of the applicant.

According to her, the applicant cannot be adequately compensated if the station is allowed to continue to broadcast the documentary which it started airing daily from March 1.

Akinkugbe adjourned the matter till April 16 for further direction.

POLLS: We're investigating voter apathy —LAGOS APC as against the over 3.8 million Faleke said: “We are analyzing

By Monsuru Olowoopejo

L

AGOS—ALL Progressives Congress, APC Lagos State, yesterday said it is investigating the voter apathy recorded during the Presidential election held on March 28, considering the huge Permanent Voter card, PVC distributed in the state.

Less than two million (1,324,787) voters participated in the elections,

Permanent Voters Cards, PVC issued by the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC prior to the elections.

Director of the BuhariOsinbajo Presidential Campaign Organisation, Mr. James Faleke yesterday disclosed this while addressing members of the party at the Buhari-Osinbajo victory rally held at the Freedom Park, Ojota, Lagos State.

the low turnout experienced in the last presidential election. And we have realized some reasons.

Some of the reasons were the hot weather experienced on the Election Day and the issues of faulty card readers.

“Some of these might have caused the voter apathy in the state. But we will ensure that more people troop out to cast their vote in the forthcoming elections.”

A G O S —

GOVERNORSHIP candidate of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode has thanked Lagosians for voting out the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in the Presidential election.

He said he is particularly grateful that the people of Lagos against all odds headed his plea to vote out the PDP for nonperformance and cluelessness in the management of the affairs of the nation for the past 16 years which grew worse in the last 6 years.

According to him, "the concept of change was midwived in Lagos and has been birthed in the nation with the unprecedented success of the All Progressives Congress, APC, in the Presidential election, the first of its kind in Nigeria where an incumbent had been roundly defeated and peacefully displaced from power."

NLC faction urges aggrieved parties to seek redress in court POLLS:

By Victor AhiumaYoung

L

AGOS—NIGERIA Labour Congress, NLC, yesterday urged aggrieved individuals and parties in last Saturday’s Presidential and National Assembly elections to seek redress in court instead of creating unnecessary tension, declaring that Nigeria was bigger than any individual or groups.

NLC in a statement congratulated Nigerian President-elect, General Muhammed Buhari, GMD, (retd) on his victory and equally praised President Goodluck Jonathan for conceding defeat and congratulating the President-elect.

The statement signed by Comrade Joe Ajaero led faction of the Congress in Lagos, also commended Nigerians for the peaceful conduct of the election, saying they were the true winners of the elections, especially the Presidential election.

Vanguard, THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2015 —11

BUHARI: It's like independence again

—S-WEST APC I

By Ola Ajayi

BADAN—THE leadership of All Progressives Congress in the South West has assured Nigerians that the party would not disappoint them.

The zonal party while congratulating the President-elect and running mate, in a statement by its Director of Media and Publicity, Mr. Ayo Afolabi, said what used to feel like a fantasy had finally become a reality because of Nigerians’ commitment to forging the country of their dream through democratic means.

“It feels like Independence all over again,” the statement said.

While thanking all Nigerians, electoral and security officers that worked to help democracy make further inroads into Nigeria’s existence, he noted that what happened had confirmed the late sage, Chief Awolowo’s statement that – change will come when Nigerian masses in the North and South, Christians, Muslims and Animist will merge as one for the progress and unity of the country.

“This is the dawn of a new Nigeria, one firmly established on democratic principles, good governance, and respect for the rule of law. Nigeria will be free from the bondage of corruption, impunity, unemployment, nepotism, and other anti-national

claws holding her down.

“We thank Professor Attahiru Jega, the architect of Nigeria’s modern democracy, for his nobility and courage of conviction in the face of massive threat, opposition, and sabotage.

“The S-West APC also singled out President Goodluck Jonathan, GCFR, for commendation because his magnanimity, expressed when he conceded defeat and

congratulated his opponent.

This singular act, which first began with our own Dr. Kayode Fayemi, has further shown that Nigeria is now matured for constitutional governance and participatory democracy.”

“Finally, we congratulate and thank Asiwaju Bola Tinubu for the love he has for this country, which made him take the biggest political risk ever known in Nigeria’s annals and staking all he has on it. It could

have been suicidal but God chose to reward your seeds with a tree that will continue to produce fruits of democratic dividends for many generations to come.” We also thank and congratulate our leaders throughout the South West including Chief Bisi Akande, Otunba Niyi Adebayo, all former and serving governors and other leaders too numerous to mention," he said.

CERTIFICATE OF RETURN: President-Elect, General Muhammadu Buhari (2nd right), his running mate, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo (3rd right), National Leaders, All Progressives Congress, APC, Chief Bisi Akande (right), Asiwaju Bola Tinubu (left) and other APC chieftains, after receiving the President-Elect's Certificate of Return at National Conference Centre, Abuja, yesterday.

Daniel, Isiaka, laud Jonathan, assure of change in Ogun

A

By Daud Olatunji

BEOKUTA—FORMER governor of Ogun State, Otunba Gbenga Daniel and the State Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, governorship candidate, Prince Gboyega Nasir Isiaka have described President Goodluck Jonathan as a true democrat and peace-loving statesman following his acceptance of the outcome of the just concluded presidential election as declared by the chairman of the National Independent Electoral Commission, INEC, Prof. Attahiru Jega.

Both Daniel and Isiaka commended President Goodluck for the sacrifice he made to strengthen democracy in Nigeria by congratulating All Progressives Congress, APC, candidate, Gen Muhammadu Buhari who won last Saturday's election.

Daniel in his congratulatory message signed by his media aide, Ayo Giwa said President Jonathan has demonstrated “a rare show of honour and respect for the rule of law.”

According to him, President Jonathan has etched his name in the book of history devoid of the do-or-die tendencies of some world leaders.

In a statement he personally signed, Isiaka expressed

optimism that the PDP will record a resounding victory on the April 11 governorship election posited that Ogun people are tired of Senator Ibikunle Amosun-led administration, which he said has failed to deliver on his campaign promises.

He said: “Mr. President has established a legacy of democratic freedom, electoral transparency and entrenchment of the masses’ wish in Nigeria which was unprecedented.

“By subjecting himself to a thorough process, accepting to be bound by the outcome and even immediately extending his personal best wishes to his opponent, he has doused the tension in the country and shown the international community that Nigeria has indeed come of age."

The PDP governorship candidate noted that, "for us in Ogun State, the wind of change will indeed blow. As the

gubernatorial candidate of the PDP, these results clearly present sterner challenges to conquer but also with it comes the opportunity for success and progress. I firmly believe that Ogun people crave a new leadership come April 11, 2015. Our people have seen through the elaborate sham called governance in Ogun today and are determined to effect a change.’’

...as Kashamu congratulates Buhari

M

EANTIME, the Chairman, South West Organisation and Mobilisation Committee of Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, and Senator-elect, Prince Buruji Kashamu has congratulated the President-elect, Gen. Muhammadu Buhari on his victory at the March 28, 2015 poll.

In a statement issued yesterday, Kashamu described Gen. Buhari’s victory as welldeserved and hard fought, adding that “majority of Nigerians have spoken and we must all respect their wish”.

“As a loyal party man, I campaigned for my party and candidate to the best of my ability.

Now that the elections have been won and lost, and Nigerians

have spoken, we must respect the wish of the majority and move on with our lives since Nigeria is greater than our personal interests and political affiliations.”

Kashamu hailed President Goodluck Jonathan for not

interfering with the electoral system, adding that, “with his conduct and exemplary leadership, he has secured for himself a place in the annals of history as an elder statesman and a true democrat”.

Buhari's emergence, resilience of human spirit —OGUN APC

A

BEOKUTA—THE All Progressives Congress, APC, in Ogun State has described the just – concluded presidential election won by General Muhammadu Buhari as resilience of the human spirit and sportsmanship.

In a statement signed by the party’s Publicity Pecretary, Sola Lawal, the party pointed out that the emergence of Buhari as president–elect after a fourth trial is a testimony to the fact that with doggedness anything is achievable.

According to the party, Buhari’s victory was made possible by the fact that the president-elect shunned a recourse to violence in the previous failed attempts.

“The pan–Nigerian mandate offered the president-elect at the polls is a clear pointer to the fact that Nigerian electorate is detribalised and politically sophisticated sufficiently to take the right decision about their destiny,” the party said.

Free train ride for Osun Easter holiday makers

O

SOGBO—AS part of its continued commitment to the welfare and well-being of the people, the Government of Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola has announced this year’s free train ride for the Easter celebration.

In a statement by the Ministry of Commerce, Cooperative, Industry and Empowerment on Wednesday, the free train ride would convey people coming for the Easter festival from Lagos to Osogbo on Friday 3rd April by 11am.

A return train will depart Osogbo to Lagos on Monday 6th April 11 am.

The statement noted that the government did this to ease movements of the people during period of the festivity.

Buhari's victory, a watershed —AREGBESOLA

By Gbenga Olarinoye

O

SOGBO—THE Governor of Osun State, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola has described the victory recorded by the All Progressives Congress, APC, in the Saturday election as a fulfilment of the vision of the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo.

This was just as Aregbesola

described the outcome of the poll as a watershed in the annals of democratic elections in Nigeria.

The governor in a broadcast to the people of the state noted that the election of Gen. Muhammadu Buhari as president of Nigeria is the culmination of the struggle for the enthronement of a peopledriven democratic governance

in the country.

Aregbesola reminded Nigerians that Awolowo had in 1983 predicted that the progressive elements in the North and South would one day come together for the liberation of the country.

He pointed out that the progressives have always wanted to come together in the past but their march had always been stopped by cruel fate.

12—Vanguard, THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2015

Jonathan’s concession of defeat historic, statesmanly, says Uduaghan

By Festus Ahon

A

SABA—GOVERNOR Emmanuel Uduaghan of Delta State has said that President Goodluck Jonathan has demonstrated that he is truly a statesman and a patriotic Nigerian.

Speaking, yesterday, at a Delta State Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, stakeholders meeting in Asaba, the governor said that by the courageous act of conceding defeat and personally calling General Muhammadu Buhari to congratulate him, the president has exhibited an uncanny patriotism and statesmanship.

He said: “For me, the hero of this election is Mr. President. If he did not do what he did, if he had not called General Buhari, the story would have been different. We congratulate the President for being a statesman, for being a worthy example, for being patriotic and showing that personal interests should not override national interests.”

In particular, Uduaghan said that President Jonathan’s congratulatory message to Gen. Buhari saved the country from post-election chaos.

“The President exhibited an exemplary character, he waited patiently to be accredited and asked Nigerians to be patient despite

the challenges of the elections and personal embarrassment to his person and office.”

Besides, he stated that General Buhari's emergence as president-elect signified the enthronement of true democratic culture in Nigeria midwifed by President Jonathan.

He said: “For us in Delta State, we congratulate President Jonathan for giving us a democratic process that allows for free and fair elections.”

The governor, who congratulated Buhari on his election, said that the meeting

was called to thank members of the PDP for their impressive showing during the presidential and National Assembly elections.

“I called this meeting to thank you sincerely and to congratulate you on our very strong showing as a party during the last elections. I believe we had the strongest showing in the country. It happened because we are united, we worked hard and we worked together. I want to thank you sincerely and I want to commend the PDP for putting up a democratic process that gives power to

the people.

“My appeal is that as we did it on March 28 and March 29 we should also do the same on April 11, for all our candidates so that we can come tops at the end of the day.”

The PDP governorship candidate in the state, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, said Governor Uduaghan’s leadership qualities made it possible for the PDP to win the three senatorial seats, nine House of Representatives seats and victory in all the local government areas during the presidential elections.

VISIT: From left: Vice President, Junior Chambers International, JCI, Nigeria, Anthony Egonu; President, JCI Benin Chapter, Amos Cole; National President, JCI Nigeria, Seun Osikalu; Executive Director, Youth Affairs, Edo State, Marcus Onohun and the JCI International Vice President supervising Nigeria, Itai Manyere, during JCI Nigeria's visit to Edo State Government.

Edo PDP to contest Nat'l Assembly polls in three LGAs

By Gabriel Enogholase

B

ENIN—EDO State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, has said that it will contest the outcome of last Saturday's National Assembly elections in Akoko-Edo, Owan East and Etsako West Local Government Areas in court, alleging that elections in the areas were fraught with irregularities and electoral malpractices.

PDP Chairman in Edo State, Chief Dan Orbih, who addressed journalists in Benin, yesterday, specifically mentioned the situation in Akoko-Edo council, where he alleged that the candidate of one of the parties brought in over 4,000 votes from his ward with his own hands to Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, collation centre in the area.

He said that the action was unaccepted to the PDP as the said candidate was not an INEC staff.

He said that the situation was not different in Owan-East and Etsako-West councils, where electoral malpractices such as the falsification of results and thumb

C M Y K

printing, among others, were the order of the day.

Congratulating PDP elected members in the National Assembly on their elections, Orbih said that his party won in 15 of the 17 local governments declared

in the presidential election, appealing to Edo people to support them to enable the party bring the dividends of democracy to the state from Abuja.

On next week’s state House of Assembly election in the state, he

said: “What is happening in Abuja has nothing to do with us in Edo State. It has not taken away our victory in the state because the All Progressives Congress, APC, has suffered humiliating defeat from the PDP."

Delta LG boss woos investors to Warri North

C

HAIRMAN of Warri North Local Government Area, Delta State, Mr. Francis Maku-Eyituoyor, has called on entrepreneurs and investors to come over to Koko Town, the council headquarters, and take advantage of the enormous economic potentials there to do business.

Making the appeal during a discussion with some businessmen in Asaba, the Delta State capital, Maku-Eyituoyor said that Koko was a river gateway to the Atlantic Ocean and other countries in Africa as well as the rest of the world. He said the council will partner the leaders of Koko community to facilitate speedy acquisition of land for

investors who come to do business there.

He said that with the dual carriageway leading into the port town and Benin City airport less than 30 minutes drive away, visitors and businessmen will not experience stress coming and

leaving the council headquarters at all times. He added that the place was relatively crime-free with the military and police providing security while the people are hospitable.

“Koko is certainly an excellent place to do business,” MakuEyituoyor assured.

Delta community holds 60th annual confab Uwagwu, said the conference

T

HE 60th Annual General Conference of the people of Alisimie Idumu-Itenei Community in Alisimie-Agbor, Ika South Local Government Area of Delta State comes up on tomorrow.

A statement by the Chairman of Alisimie Central Executive Committee, Mr. Augustine

will take place at Alisimie Town Hall in Idumukwu, AlisimieAgbor.

He enjoined sons and daughters of Alisimie in the country and in Diaspora to attend the conference and make progressive suggestions on how to enhance the growth and development of the community.

POLLS: DELSU students drum support for Okowa

A

GROUP of students of Delta State University, DELSU, Abraka under the aegis of Abraka Initiative for Okowa, has said that they are committed to the election of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, governorship candidate in the state, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa in the April 11 governorship election.

The group, during a courtesy call at the Abraka residence of its patron, Prince Joshua Atigogo, described Okowa as a round peg in a round hole with the capability and experience to take over the reins of leadership from Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan come May 29.

In his remarks, president of the group, Mr. Charles Alapka, reiterated the commitment of the group to spreading Okowa's ideas and agenda of the development of the state through the Hostel to Hostel Campaign, adding that students of the institution would vote enbloc for Okowa in the governorship election.

APRIL 11 POLL: Asagba summons Delta North leaders to crucial meeting

A

HEAD of the April 11 governorship election in Delta State, the Asagba of Asaba, Prof. Chike Edozien, has summoned a meeting of community leaders in Delta North for a crucial meeting in his palace tomorrow.

A statement by the Asagba Palace, said the meeting has become necessary as the governorship election comes after the March 28 general elections that saw the complications on the smart card readers and disenfranchisement of voters.

The statement by Sir Dan Okenyi, said those expected to attend include the President Generals and secretaries of town unions in Delta North senatorial district.

Vanguard, THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2015—13

North, S-West ganged up against N-Delta, Dokubo alleges A

By Emma Amaize

SABA—THE Niger Delta People Salvation Front/Niger Delta People Volunteer Force, NDPSF/ NDPVF, led by Alhaji Mujahid Dokubo-Asari, has described General Muhammadu Buhari's victory in the presidential election as a conspiracy by the North and South-West against the Niger Delta, South-East and Middle Belt geo-political regions.

Similarly, a Niger Delta activist, Mr. Austin Ozobo, has said that the just concluded presidential election was a manipulation and a scam against President Goodluck Jonathan and people of the Niger Delta by a section of the country.

Ozobo said in Warri, yesterday: “What happened was that they submitted cooked up results from their bedrooms to favour their Muslim

brother, Gen. Buhari and Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC chairman, Professor Jega was evidently biased in his assignment.

“We can no longer exist in a country full of injustice and manipulation. We are tired of being called infidels and second-class citizens. Every successive president in this country was given the privilege to rule two terms but

POLLS: Edo APC bigwig drags Army, Dokpesi to court

By Simon Ebegbulem

B

ENIN—EDO State Vice Chairman of All Progressives Congress, APC, Usman Mogaji and five others, have dragged the Nigerian Army and Chief Raymond Dokpesi, C h a i r m a n , D A A R Communications, before a Federal High Court sitting in Benin, over alleged harassment, detention, denial of fundamental human rights, among others, by soldiers during last Saturday ’s presidential and National Assembly elections in Etsako West Local Government Area of the state.

Other respondents in the suit are the Chief of Army Staff, the Commandant of Nigerian Army School of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering, BrigadierGeneral Augustine Odidi, Aliyu Mogaji, Tony Braimah, Samuel Nandik and Everest Igbolekwe, who are wards, siblings and employees of Mogaji.

Applicants counsel, Hilary Oshomah, is praying the court to restrain the respondents from “Further arresting, detaining, intimidating, harassing, kidnapping, abducting or in any manner infringing on the fundamental rights of the respective applicants and members of 1st

C M Y K

applicant's household on the instigation of the 4th respondent.”

They also want a public apology in two national newspapers over their harassment, beating and detention by soldiers allegedly on the orders of Dokpesi.

They are also claiming N500 million as damages against the respondents and N20 million against Odidi and Dokpesi, jointly and severally, in favour of each of 2nd to 5th

Respondents for wrongful, illegal, unlawful kidnapping, abduction, forceful torture, degrading and inhuman treatment, detention, hostage, captivity and false imprisonment of the applicants.

It will be recalled that Mogaji was allegedly abducted on the day of election by soldiers attached to the Nigerian Army School of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering in Auchi.

FG flags off N113bn road project in Delta, Edo

By Festus Ahon

A

SABA—MINISTER of Works, Mr. Mike Onolememen, has flagged off the Sapele-Ewu Road, linking Delta and Edo States and Sapele-Agbor in Delta State dualization, valued at N113 billion.

Saying that the road project was to enhance social-economic activities in the various communities and facilitate smooth inter-state transportation, Onolememen said the road project has two sections; section 1: Sapele-Agbor in Delta State while section II is Agbor-Ewu in Delta/Edo states.

He said that the Sapele - Agbor

section of the road, which is about 110.30km in length with the contract sum of N64,876,558,50, connects the South-South and South-East geopolitical zone, while section II Agbor-Ewu road with the sum of N48 billion has a total of 75km with two bridges and a total width of 23.7mm, made up of a two- lane dual carriage way of 7.3mm for e a c h direction.

our turn was different.

“Why was that same privilege not extended to us? We have been cheated and that is very dangerous.

Since independence, Jonathan's tenure is the first time we have produced a president in this country and he has been barred from a second term.

This is callous.”

NDPSF/NDPVF in a statement by Mr Rex Anighoro, said: “It is not a victory of the people, but a victory of regional conspiracy and supremacy. It clearly reinforces the fact of self determination and the truth that Nigeria remains a very divided and separated entity whose claim to unity remains a fraud of gargantuan proportion.

“The voting pattern has clearly shown that the Hausa/ Fulani North and the Yorubas are united in the conquest of the Niger Deltans and the Igbos of defunct Biafra with the Middle Belt now used as pawns. We remain a people separated by our ideologies and interests. We are not integrated or reconciled.

“The conditions that advanced the need to embrace the creeks have been sadly re -energised. It is clear that a vicious government who may maim and murder the voice of the so-called minorities may have just been birthed. Indeed integration is nonexistent as regional gang ups and supremacy are symbolic with this victory."

Itsekiri group hails Buhari

By Emma Amaize

W

ARRI—THE Warri Study Group, WSG, which is the intellectual wing of the Itsekiri ethnic nationality in Delta State, yesterday, commended the President-elect, Gen. Muhammadu Buhari on his victory at the presidential poll.

The group, in a statement by its Chairman, Mr Edward Ekpoko, said: “It is a victory for Nigeria. This change could not have come at a better time as Nigeria is at her darkest period in history.

“The twin evil of corruption and impunity have held the nation by the jugular. Our national security is in the hands of ex-militants and warlords. Our youths are hopeless due to inept government and what is more, our institutions are sadly politicised and weakened.

“This is not the Nigeria of our dream. We cried to high heavens and our prayers have been answered. Buhari is the answer. We wish you God’s guidance in the discharge of this onerous assignment.”

14—Vanguard, THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2015

Buhari receives Certificate of Return

Professor Attahiru Jega, Chairman, Independent National Electoral Commissioin, INEC, presenting Certificate of Return to All Progressives Congress, APC, presidential candidate, General Muhammadu Buhari, at National Conference Centre, Abuja, while Professor Yemi Osinbajo, APC Vice Presidential Candidate, and General Buhari's wife, Aisha, look on.

General Buhari (2nd right), Professor Yemi Osinbajo (3rd right), Chief Bisi Akande (right)Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, National Leader (left) and other APC chieftains. Photos: Joe Akintola (Photo editor), Abayomi Adeshida, Gbenga Olamikan, Bunmi azeez, Olu Ajayi, Barnabas Uzosike, Dare Fasube

From left, APC National Chairman, Chief John Oyegun; Nigeria's President- Elect,General Buhari and Professor Yemi Osinbajo, Vice President-Elect.

Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amechi, discussing with former PDP Chairman Abubakar Baraje

Jonathan meets EU Observer team, others

President Goodluck Jonathan, receiving European Union Ambassador to Nigeria, Amb. Michel Arrion, while the European Union Chief Observer, Santiago Fisas (right), and the Deputy Chief Observer, Hannah Roberts, watch, during a visit by the European Union Elections Observer Mission to the Presidency at the State House, Abuja.

Resident Electoral Commissioner, Mr. Rufus Akeju (left), reviewing the performance of the Oyo Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, at a media briefing, in Ibadan, yesterday C M Y K

National Security Adviser, Alhaji Sambo Dasuki (left) with the Chief of Defence Staff, Air Chief Marshal Alex Bade (2nd left), and other Service Chiefs as they emerged from a security briefing by President Goodluck Jonathan at the State House, Abuja.

Vanguard, THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2015—15

BUHARI: APC rallies of jubilation around Nigeria

Supporters of All Progressive Congress, APC, during the Rally to celebrate General Muhammadu Buhari's victory, at Gani Fawehinmi Park, Ojota, Lagos.

Supporters jubilating in Uyo. Photos: Joe Akintola (Photo editor), Abayomi Adeshida, Gbenga Olamikan, Bunmi azeez, Olu Ajayi, Barnabas Uzosike, Dare Fasube

Supporters jubilating in Benin Edo State.

Members celebrating on Tuesday night in Abuja.

Supporter at a 'carnival at Murtala Muhammed Square, Kaduna.

Youths celebrating Buhari's victory in parts of Makurdi town.

C M Y K

South West coordinator, Buhari/Osinbajo Presidential Campaign, Governor Rauf Aregbesola (2nd right); his Wife, Alhaja Sherifat Aregbesola (right); former Osun Governor, Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola; Osun Deputy Governor, Mrs. Titi Laoye-Tomori (inset) and a crowd, at Nelson Mandela Freedom Park, Osogbo, Tuesday.

Celebration at Oyewole street, Iyana-Ipaja, Lagos

16 —Vanguard, THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2015

Chime congratulates Buhari, commends Jonathan

By Francis Igata

G

OVERNOR S U L L I VA N Chime of has congratulated the President-elect, Gen. Muhammadu Buhari, of the All Progressives Congress, APC, on his victory at the presidential election, describing it as a reflection of the wishes of majority of Nigerians.

He congratulated President Goodluck Jonathan over the high level of political maturity he exhibited by conceding defeat and calling to congratulate General Mohammadu Buhari who won last Saturday ’s election.

Governor,Chime said General Buhari's victory "is a reflection of the wishes of majority of Nigerians.

“I equally commend President Goodluck Jonathan for his prompt acceptance of the outcome of the elections which depicts a true statesman,patriotism and selflessness that is worth of emulation by all politicians

Help change Nigerians, cleric tells Buhari

By Vincent Ujumadu

A

WKA—THE Catholic Bishop of Nnewi Diocese in Anambra State, Most Rev Hilary Okeke, has said that one of the greatest legacies the incoming President, General Muhammadu Buhari, could bequeathe to the country was to help Nigerians have a change of attitude on issues concerning religion and the nation.

Addressing reporters in Nnewi yesterday, after delivering his Easter message, the cleric said while the President-elect had promised to fight corruption, insurgency and other vices, it was also important that Nigerians be made to know that ensuring the stability of the country was in their hands.

He said: “Nigerians never give up the quest for monetary and other material gains and inducement attached to the work."

C M Y K

Scene of a fire incident which affected some locked up shops at Balogun Market, in Lagos, yesterday

Ex-Gov Nnamani leads another street protest.Several wounded as soldiers, police fire gunshots, tear gas

By Austin Ogwuda

E

NUGU — ARMED soldiers and policemen men yesterday threw canisters of tear- gas and shot sporadically into the air to disperse a street protest led by the former governor of Enugu State, Dr Chimaroke

Nnamani over the outcome of Saturday’s presidential and National Assembly’s election.

Nnamani had led a similar protest tagged Occupy Enugu to the Independent National Electoral Commission’s, INEC’s, office few days ago, alleging that he was rigged out in the senatorial race for Enugu East which he

contested under the Peoples For Democratic Change, PDC. However, the protesters were dispersed by soldiers and policemen, who fired gun shots into the air, as Nnamani and his followers scampered for safety, leading to several of them sustaining varies degrees of injuries.

The protest had partially

PDC Reps candidate petitions INEC over 4,000 PVCs allegedly found with opponent

By Austin Ogwuda

E

NUGU — CANDIDATE of People for Democratic Change, PDC, for Nkanu East/ Nkanu West Federal constituency in Enugu State, Nnolim Nnaji, has petitioned the national chairman of Independent

National Electoral Commission, INEC, Prof. Attahiru Jega, calling for prosecution of his opponent, (names witheld) for allegedly being caught with over 4,000 Permanent Voter Cards, PV’s, on the day of the election.

In the petition dated March

Buhari’s victory, a boost to opposition politics in Nigeria —Umeh

By Vincent Ujumadu

A

WKA — THE national chairman of All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA, Chief Victor Umeh, yesterday congratulated the President-elect, General Muhammadu Buhari, on his victory at the presidential poll, saying the victory was a boost to opposition politics in Nigeria.

He also commended President Goodluck Jonathan for conceding defeat, adding that it showed his statesmanlike attributes.

While wishing Buhari well and describing his victory as good for democracy, the APGA national chairman encouraged him to adopt and implement the recommendations of the National Conference for the good of Nigeria.

Also, the leader of Progressive Peoples Alliance, PPA, in Anambra State, Mr. Godwin Ezeemo, described Buhari’s

victory and the speech made by President Jonathan in which he conceded defeat as a resounding progress in the nation’s democracy.

According to Ezeemo, the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, and President Jonathan have proved to the world that black men have great potentials and capacity to manage their affairs.

He said: “The pronouncement and acceptance by the incumbent president was a great show of patriotism on both sides.

“This is an indication that Nigeria has recorded a milestone in its democratic process. It shows how much Nigerians are developing and maturing politically and I am sure that by the next general election, greater improvements would be recorded and people with integrity and purpose of action will man affairs of this great country.”

29, 2015, with reference No. CCO/CO/116/2015 to the INEC chairman, and made available to journalists in Enugu, yesterday, Nnaji, through his counsel, Chuma Oguejiofor, alleged that “during the accreditation of voters in last Saturday’s Presidential/ National Assembly election, the opponent was arrested by soldiers and other law enforcement agents at Four Corner Junction, Ozalla, in Nkanu West Local Government Areas of Enugu state, for being in possession of over 4,000 permanent voter cards, PVC’s.”

Nnaji said in the petition that the INEC Chairman should prosecute the suspect or authorize his counsel to do so under section 150 (2) of the Electoral Act where the commission is unable to do so.

“We are solicitors for Hon. Nnolim Nnaji (he) is hereinafter called our client). We write on his behalf and instruction. ‘’It his further instruction that he (Nnaji) had contested in the election to the Nkanu East/Nkanu West Federal Constituency which had taken place on 28/3/2015 as a candidate of the Peoples for Democratic Change, PDC.’’The suspect, had also contested in the same election as a candidate, he said .

“That during the accreditation of voters for the election, Ujam was caught by soldiers and other law enforcement agencies with more than 4000 permanent voter cards.

grounded commercial activities in the city for several hours before armed security men stepped in to disperse the demonstrators.

But, the former governor vowed to sustain the protest in a bid to recover his alleged “stolen mandate in the state.”

The placard carrying protesters had accused Senator Gilbert Nnaji of allegedly conniving with security officials in the state to rig the election at the zone in his favour.

From Agbani road, the protesters who chanted solidarity songs in support of Nnamani moved through the Coal Camp, Enugu North Local Government Headquarters and Ogbete Main Market where traders were forced to close shops and join in the demonstration.

But effort to get into Obiagu, on the new layout part of the state was resisted by soldiers and mobile policemen and in the ensuing confusion several persons sustained injuries as they ran helter skelter.

Speaking on the occasion, Nnamani said he would not give up on the struggle until the “ restoration of my mandate.”

However, Senator Gilbert Nnaji, who won the ticket on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, denied involvement in any rigging arrangement.

He said, “If Nnamani is claiming that he won the election, let him come out and prove how he did it. You people can check the ballot boxes and see if there is any evidence of falsification. All he is doing is to try and misinform the public.

“If the election was actually rigged by me, I would have given him a wider margin.

From the figures released by the INEC, you can see it was a keenly contested election.”

Vanguard, THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2015 — 17

T

HE story filtered out by late evening on Tuesday evening this week. President Goodluck Jonathan had placed a call to General Muhammadu Buhari, to congratulate him, as victor in what might be the most bitterly fought elections in recent Nigerian history.

That statesman-like gesture carried very powerful symbols for Nigeria’s democracy and the fate of our country. There can be no more hiding places for those who put themselves above the welfare of the country; at the same time, Jonathan’s telephone call underlined the fact that incumbency can no longer be the most important factor in the political cum electoral process.

Whenever a government fails to keep the Social Contract with our people, the ballot box can effectively be employed to deal a decisive defeat on such an erring government! President Jonathan entered the positive end of history at the moment of his greatest political anguish!

He became the first Nigerian president to be defeated through the ballot box. He failed in governance and dangerously manipulated the country’s fault lines, but his graceful gesture of acceptance of defeat saved us a potentially agonizing aftermath.

The significance of last week’s elections reverberated around the world, catching people’s interest from near and far. My friends from around the world were passionately caught up in the process and the nail-biting finale, almost as if they were also Nigerians.

Consolidation of democracy The fact that we are Africa’s most populous and richest country, made the outcome of the process a vital part of democracy consolidation in our continent. For once, Nigeria lived up to billing as African giant. Other elections come up later in the year around our continent; so Nigeria’s ability to break duck will resound to Africa’s benefit.

If we manage the post-election period peacefully and responsibly, we would have achieved remarkable success.

When President Goodluck made that telephone call to General Muhammadu Buhari, he helped douse what might have spiraled out of control and placed the country’s health above personal interest.

Nigeria has been in celebratory mode since General Muhammadu Buhari’s historical victory at the fourth time of trying.

He persevered; stayed the course and taught vital lessons in persistence and focus, integrity and fidelity to principles. But Buhari would not have gone beyond his old hunting ground of Northern Nigeria, without the remarkable and politically adroit sacrifices made by leading politicians who formed the All Progressives Congress (APC).

For the first time in Nigeria’s political history, they forged an alliance across the North/West chasm, which had historically proved most difficult to achieve.

We cannot underestimate the process which midwifed APC; C M Y K

Muhammadu Buhari: A historical turning point and I will be the first to admit that one of its greatest architects is Bola Tinubu. This is also infact the “Tinubu Moment” in Nigerian politics, because his farsightedness and political acumen to lead the process must be acknowledged. I say that, as a political commentator who has often been critical of Bola Tinubu’s politics!

By galvanizing a process which provided an alternative platform to convey the hopes of the Nigerian people, the APC’s founding fathers should be commended. Across Nigeria, from South to North, a mass movement emerged, which built around General Buhari’s impeccable character, and the moment in history, found its man.

And when such a historical moment catches up with a country in crisis as Nigeria, the hurricane-like effect, becomes unstoppable! It is therefore one of the supreme ironies of this historical moment and process, that utterly corrupt and antipeople political barons, like the hegemonic forces and hegemon of Kwara state, could opportunistically, benefit from the Buhari mystique that they genuinely do not love! Eventually though, even opportunists spend all their currencies, because opportunism exhausts in the long run. For example, even with Buhari in power, will the Kwara leopard change its spot? Would Kwara’s finances ever be used for the benefit of its people? Would the hegemon; his satraps and their economic wellbeing stop being the most important items of finance and budget in Kwara?

Will Buhari’s emergence stop the manipulative exploitation of

Our bizarre form of capitalism is not creating the jobs our teeming population requires

Kwara’s underdevelopment by the hegemon and hegemony?

These are some of the contradictions that might haunt the Buhari presidency in the long run.

Mandate delivered But for now, we can take in the full measure of this fork of the Nigerian historical process. The Nigerian people accepted the message of change and have now delivered the mandate of its delivery, to General MuhammaduBuhari. Our country should now roll upits sleeves and go to work, to reclaim this beautiful, if overexploited country. I do not envy General MuhammaduBuhari, because

the task ahead is immense. How to manage expectations for change will test the capacity of the new administration, at a time the economy is in tailspin! Buhari must also unite his supporters and opponents alike. I wonder if General Buhari noticed the preponderance of young people at his polling unit in Daura last Saturday. Nigeria is a very young country, with 18 years as our median age: 45% of the population is under 15; 63% under the age of 25 and 75% is under 35! These are the most critical segments of the population and what they need are education; skills and jobs. Our bizarre form of capitalism is not creating the jobs our teeming population requires.

The Buhari administration cannot afford a

religion-like embrace of market capitalist fundamentalism, as the PDP did disastrously, over the past sixteen years. In the process, they created a tiny band of ‘G o v e r n m e n t - a p p r o v e d Billionaires”, while impoverishing the mass of the Nigerian people. Today, Nigeria is one of the most unequal and unjust societies on earth! The consequences haunt us today: Boko Haram insurgency; sundry anti-state acts; many forms of criminal acts and brigandage and a society that is practically living on the edge of the precipice.

General Buhari must similarly, manage the expectations of members of the alliance of politicians, many of them clear liabilities with controversial careers, steeped in corruption, and other unwholesome acts that Buhari has always been opposed to, and which formed basis of the Nigerian people’s affection for him. That should weigh on his mind as he makes the transition from this historical moment, to providing leadership for the change that he and his political associates promised the Nigerian people. The clock is ticking; the next four years are just around the corner. The people now know that they can vote out of office a president and government that fail to keep their promises; if in doubt, please ask Goodluck Ebele Jonathan! Congratulations General MuhammaduBuhari.

‘Omo to sure': The Mike Omotosho guber challenge in Kwara

O

N Sunday night, this week, Mike Omotosho, governorship candidate of the Labour Party in Kwara State, visited my residence in Ilorin. We held wide-ranging discussions for about two hours. It was my first meeting with him and he is the only one of the governorship candidates that asked to meet with me.

Omotosho is a very imposing, and impressive individual, in many ways. He has a background in pharmaceutical supply management and has done not for profit work for many years. He explained to me, that it was largely the work that he has done with people in communities and the challenges associated with their lives, which largely conditioned his decision to enter politics.

“OMO TO SURE”, as he is called by his admirers, says he sees his effort as an opportunity to touch lives. He is a realist and optimist rolled into one, and his programme which is printed into pamphlet size and titled “SURE PATH TO GREATNESS”, focuses mainly on social security; urban & rural development; Responsible & Responsive Governance; Education, Employment & Entrepreneurship; Productivity; Agriculture; Trade, Commerce & Industrialization and Healthcare.

I reminded Omotosho of the challenge that he faces, in a state that for long has been dominated by the hegemony of a single individual. He is willing to give his all; and his passion, conviction and commitment were

certainly infectious! And the fact that I got to meet with him, allowed me to take a good measure of the man. I feel happy that increasingly, many genuine patriots are beginning to take up the mantle to oppose the corrupt hegemony that has been creaming off the resources of Kwara state since 2003. It is this criminal hegemony that has presided over the underdevelopment of our state in the past twelve years. This is the challenge, which Mike Omotosho has chosen to confront from the platform of the Labour Party. I wish him well.

Governorship running mate Having spoken about Mike Omotosho, it is only fair to also mention other candidates in the race. Even my cousin, Ahmed Yinka Aluko, is the governorship running mate of PDP Candidate, Simeon Ajibola,my senior at GSS Ilorin. Similarly, the incumbent, Abdul Fatai Ahmed, is someone with whom I have a relationship dating back decades.

But in all of these political contests, for me, the most important issue has always been the wellbeing of the people of Kwara state. Unfortunately, over the past twelve years, governance has resembled an elaborate pyramid scheme of fraud and personal enrichment, far more than delivery of good life to the people.

This is the reason that I have been critical of the performances of government in our dear state,

and the suffocating overlordship of a single individual who remains central in the governance architecture in Kwara state, since 2003.

Kwara state deserves the very best and unfortunately, that is what it has not received in the past twelve years. We have tremendous advantages that could have provided a basis for our development as well as positioning our people to take full advantages of modernity.

These include the relatively high level of education; an enterprising people; a people with diverse cultural backgrounds, but who have learnt to creatively manage our diversity and made it work to a large extent, before a regime of heist and taking out but leaving little, was installed from 2003 till date.

It is imperative for all those who want to rule us to embrace platforms that make the people the central cause of the developmental agenda, not the creature comfort of a single hegemon and his satraps.

Unfortunately, I never had the opportunity to meet the other gubernatorial candidates, but the regime of heist in place since 2003 is not sustainable.

Those exploiting the Nigerian people’s desire for change to institute continuity of taking our money under fraudulent purposes will eventually give account. In any case, we won’t stop monitoring and holding to account, whoever wins the governorship election in Kwara state. That is what I owe the people of our state!

Vanguard, THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2015—19

C M Y K

20 — Vanguard, THURSDAY THURSDAY,, APRIL 2, 2015

Malaria: 15% of pregnant women on death row •The AFRICARE intervention

By Gabriel Enogholase, Benin

I

LAJE Local Government Area of Ondo State with its headquarters in Igbokoda is a riverine area which also enjoys the reputation of having an unusually high number of pregnant women who are said to be vulnerable to malaria fever. It was a problem which has for long haunted the community. The good news is that help has at last come to the people, courtesy of Chevron Plc which recently embarked on the “prevention of Malaria in Pregnancy Project” for pregnant mothers in the local government.

The project was funded by the oil giant under the auspices of its Roll Back Malaria portfolio as part of its corporate social responsibility and a contribution to the National Malaria Elimination Programme.

The project which was launched in September 2014, and ended on February 28,, 2015 focused on delivering Intermittent Preventive treatment of malaria in pregnancy in 35 health facilities in Ilaje Local government.

es.

On the burden of malaria in pregnancy, he disclosed that approximately 45 million pregnant women live in malaria-prone areas, with 23 million of them in sub-Sahara Africa. He also disclosed that six million Nigerian women get pregnant yearly, while malaria in pregnancy accounts for 15 percent maternal anaemia and 30 percent low birth.

He said that the lesson learnt during the programme in Ilaje

The programme helped me to know the harm malaria fever could cause in pregnancy. As a pregnant woman, I now know all the measures to take to prevent malaria

*Some pregnant women receiving instruction during the programme local government included high malaria incidence observed in remote communities from 24-76 percent, cases of entire family members testing positive for malaria and reduction of malaria cases in some areas.

Dr. Adah said that during the four months programme, 4902 people were reached with malaria interventions, including test with RDTs, treatment with ACTs and LLINs just as pregnant women who had not attended Ante Natal Clinics, ANC, received the first dose of SP (IPTI), 12 received second

C M Y K

Some of the pregnant women who benefited from the programme lauded Chevron for bringing the programme to their local government.

According to Mrs. Ijietemi Omolara: ”The programme helped me to know the harm malaria fever could cause in pregnancy. As a pregnant woman, I now know all the measures to take to prevent malaria” Another beneficiary, Mrs. Ololajulo Queen said, “I appreciate the aims of the programme and thank all those who helped to bring it about”.

FRSC, others partner to donate food items to accident victims

Malaria burden While the goal of the project was to contribute towards reducing malaria burden to preelimination level and malaria related mortality to zero level, its objective was to provide at least 80 percent of pregnant women in the area with appropriate preventive measures.

Speaking at the closing ceremony marking the end of the programme at Igbokoda, the representative of AFRICARE, which supervised and implemented the programme on behalf of Chevron Plc, Dr. Patrick Adah, described the scheme as laudable and encouraging. He said that Ondo State has been one of the beneficiaries as far as preventing malaria was concerned.

Topics covered, according to him, include signs and symptoms of malaria, burden and intermittent preventive treatment of malaria in pregnancy with focus on antenatal care servic-

dose of SP (IPT2) and two received IPT3.

He disclosed that 27,750 doses of Sulfadoxine Pyrimethamine, SP, were procured for distribution to the intervention facilities. He advised all pregnant women to ensure that they receive three doses of SP after discovering that they were four months pregnant and space them at least one month interval.

The Africare representative expressed gratitude to the Ondo State government and the Ilaje local government for its assistance during the programme.

By Bose Adelaja

O

Oyeyemi and Oduyemi exchange handshake after the donation, while FRSC’s Sadiq looks on

YESOLA Oduyemi, an auto dealer, took his father to Igbobi Orthopedic hospital, Lagos where the aged man was on admission for six months with his son often coming around to keep him company. During this period, Oyesola saw the abandoned and the needy, especially those whose relatives could not offset the hospital bills, and was moved to lend a helping hand.

After his father was discharged, the young man went back to the hospital to repeat the gesture.

The passion to help the lessprivileged, especially the unhealthy, developed and grew from there.

Last Monday, he decided to take the donation to a larger scale by contacting the Federal Road Safety Commission FRSC and telecommunication company, Etisalat Nigeria Limited. The resulting partnership subsequently produced an arrangement where food items

were presented to the emergency ward of Lagos Island General Hospital.

During the donation, the Lagos FRSC Island Unit Commander, Abdurahaman Sodiq said the corps was at the occasion to support the gesture by Oyesola. ‘’The donation is for the accident victims and our statutory function is to rescue them. We are in support of the helmsman of this non-governmental organisation in order to boost his morale,’’said the FRSC unit commander.

The Manager, Corporate and Social Responsibility of the telecommunication company, Oyetola Oyeyemi, said she was delighted to partner with the young man who has signified his intention to help the needy.

In a chat with Vanguard Metro, Oyesola said his six months sojourn in the hospital was an eye opener to the programme. “I thank God for giving me the grace to identify with the needy and this is something I want to do as long as I am alive, ‘’ he promised.

Vanguard, THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2015

— 21

PZ Cussons acquires Nigerian milk partner for N6.1bn

By Favour Nnabugwu

P

From left:: Head, Maple Leaf Press Ltd, Mr. VVS Prasad; a dealer from Onitsha, Mr. Ifezue Joseph Uche and National Sales Manager, Maple Leaf Press Ltd, Mr. Humphrey Opara, at the presentation of a new car to Uche for his outstanding business performances, during the company’s Dealer Appreciation Programme 2014, in Lagos.

SON demands release of National Action Plan on climate change

BY Naomi Uzor

T

he Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON) has called on the Federal government to release the National Action Plan on climate change as soon as possible.

The Deputy Director, Training Information Management System, SON, Dr Justin Nickaf, who made this call, said the National Action Plan on climate change needs to be released by the president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as soon as possible, adding that, the plan will out-

$136.80

3.90

$2,751.00

52.00

12.28

0.35

$56.63

1.52

$49.29

1.69

CURRENCY BUYING CENTRAL DOLLAR POUNDS EURO FRANC YEN CFA WAUA RENMINBI RIYAL KRONA SDR

196 290.0408 212.6404 203.4884 1.6351 0.3052 271.0154 31.5738 52.2458 28.4685 271.166

196.5 290.7807 213.1829 204.0075 1.6393 0.3152 271.7067 31.6548 52.379 28.5411 271.8578

197 291.5206 213.7253 204.5266 1.6434 0.3252 272.3981 31.7358 52.5123 28.6138 272.5495

CBN Exchange Rate as at 1/4/15

C M Y K

line the missions of the nation including National Mission for Enhanced Energy Efficiency (NMEEE).

He said the basic objective of the NMEEE mission is to ensure a sustainable growth by an approximate mix of 4 E’s, namely- Energy, Efficiency, Equity and Environment “In one of the four components of NMEEE, namely, Perform Achieve and Trade (PAT), energy baseline parameters and energy saving targets are being fixed for 8 sectors of energy intensive industry including Thermal power stations under the relevant energy Act. PAT process will provide awareness to the manufacturing sector to how to establish energy performance baseline, normalize energy perform-

Nigeria will need to train a pool of energy managers and auditors in order to have professionally qualified energy managers and energy auditors that will have expertise in energy management, project management, financing and implementation of energy efficiency projects, and policy analysis

ance indicators, target fixation process and action plans to achieve target” he said.

He said in order to achieve the targets, as set , the plant is required to have a strong energy management system , well defined energy policy and qualified human resource.

“Nigeria will need to target some industrial sectors to define their energy policies and implement and train energy manager. Nigeria will need to train a pool of energy managers and auditors in order to have professionally qualified energy managers and energy auditors that will have expertise in energy management, project management, financing and implementation of energy efficiency projects, and policy analysis. If these is achieved it will be relatively easier for Nigerian industry to adopt ISO 50001 Standard” he stated.

According to him, a new international ISO 50001 standard, applicable to any organisation whatever the size, industry or geographical location, will benchmark energy management, and establish a framework for organization to manage energy use efficiently. It is estimated that the standard could influence up to 60 percent of the world’s energy use.

“This International Standard is based on the Plan-Do-Check-Act continual improvement framework and incorporates energy management in organization practices. It does not establish absolute requirements for energy performance beyond the commitments in the energy policy of the organisation and its obligation to comply with relevant legislation. Developing best practice guides on sector specific energy conservation technologies and methodologies will facilitate the implementation of ISO 50001,” he said.

Z Cussons has acquired 50 percent stake in its partner, Glanbia in their Nigerian joint venture, Nutricima for N6.1 billion (£21million) in a long-term deal with the Irish ingredients company for the supply of milk-based products to the venture.

The move will put to an end, a joint venture that was formed in 2003, which also led to the opening of a second facility making UHT products in 2009, will give the FTSE 250 outfit full ownership and control of the evaporated milk, milk powder and UHT business.

In a statement, British consumer products company PZ Cussons said the deal to take full control of Nigerian evaporated milk and milk powder venture Nutricima will boost its earnings in its next financial year PZ Cussons said over the last decade that Nutricima which runs two facilities in Nigeria has developed into a household brands including Nunu, Olympic and Yo. The Nunu Ready To Drink (RTD) is packed in tetrapak packaging with a telescopic straw that brings fun and excitement to the drinking experience of children. Bliss RTD is a unique flavoured milk drink that comes in chocolate and coffee flavours premium mix which is packed in 250ml tetrapak, while YO! is a powdered yoghurt

Powdered yoghurt The Chief Executive of PZ Cussons, Mr Alex Kanellis assured that the company will further strengthen and developed the brands under the full ownership and control of PZ Cussons.

Nutricima made N378.3m (£1.3m) in profits on N21.6bn (£74.4m) of revenues in the year to May 31, 2014.

Kanellis noted that the company will achieve leadership in its chosen markets through its commitment to being a worldclass organisation and the excellent distribution network PZ Cussons has established.

PZ Cussons, he said, used existing facilities to buy-out Glanbia and said it expects the deal to be earnings enhancing in the next financial year.

“Following the buy-out, our balance sheet remains strong, giving us the capacity to take advantage of further investment opportunities as they arise,” said “PZ Cussons is committed to the long term growth of the business and looks forward to the continued strengthening and development of its brands. Following the buy-out, our balance sheet remains strong, giving us the capacity to take advantage of further investment opportunities as they arise.”

22—Vanguard, THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2015

Knowing how to reach your customers will make a huge difference in how effective you are at reaching them

,

,

How successful businesses determine target market

B

efore you can begin marketing your products or business, or even start a business, you will need to know who you are marketing to. Who are your customers?

There are a number of reasons that knowing your target audience is important, including knowing how to tailor your message to resonate with a specific audience and what marketing mediums would be the most effective in reaching that group of consumers.

Without knowing this little detail before promoting your products or services, you’ll be missing out on reaching a huge amount of people who would have been interested in what your company had to offer.

Less than 30 percent of businesses last more than 10 years

Follow these 5 tips in order to discover what demographic you should be trying to reach.

Look at your products The first thing you need to do is take a look at what your business has to offer to consumers. What problem would your products or services provide a solution for?

Who would benefit from your products or services?

Do your research The next step in discovering your target market is doing research on your industry and competitors. There are many resources available through the Internet to make this search easy for you, but you should be able to get a keen sense of what type of customer would be interested in your business.

Information you should try to collect is demographic info (income, education level, age, sex, and even location if it is a business that may do better in one area than another), buying patterns, and any other information that would be helpful in your search. Most of this research has already been done for you, but if you aren’t C M Y K

able to find all of the facts you are searching for, hiring a marketing research firm may be the best way to get all of the data needed.

Determine customers’ preferred method of media Although 52 percent of businesses have found a customer through Facebook, according to WebDam, the reality is that the same social media websites will not work for everyone. Believe it or not, there are still plenty of people who refuse to become a part of the social media scene, which may have to do with your target market’s demographics.

After completing step 2, you should have the demographic information needed to make the decision on how to sell your products or services. For example, if you average customer is retired and in their 60’s, there’s a good chance you won’t find them surfing their social media channels. Knowing how to reach your customers will make a huge difference in how effective you are at reaching them.

Network Knowing the right people can be a valuable tool to helping your business grow. Find and meet the right people through trade shows and other networking events, or by simply calling or stopping by local businesses that are related to your industry.

Analyze competition Not only should you evaluate your competitors in order to find out who their customer is and how they are selling their products or services, you should also figure out what makes you different from them. What do you have to offer that they don’t? While I highly suggest that you refrain from copying any of their marketing ideas, knowing what they have done in the past will give you some ideas.

Unfortunately, according to The Facts of Business Life by Bill McBean, less than 30 percent of businesses last more than 10 years. The primary reason for this is the owner doesn’t know how to plan for business success or simply doesn’t know how to run a business.

BUSINESS NAIRA EXCHANGE RATES (30/03/15) Currency DOLLAR STERLING EURO FRANC YEN CFA WAUA RENMINBI RIYAL KRONA SDR

Buying(N)

Central(N)

Selling(N)

196

196.5

197

289.492 210.5824 201.3147 1.6339 0.3049 270.4778 31.612 52.2486 28.1913 270.382

290.2305 211.1196 201.8283 1.638 0.3149 271.1678 31.6931 52.3818 28.2632 271.0718

290.969 211.6568 202.3418 1.6422 0.3249 271.8578 31.7742 52.5151 28.3351 271.7615

Commod Light Crud

Natural G Sugar Coffee Cocoa

Why Nigeria is hotspot for business enterprise

By Yinka Kolawole, with agency report

N

igeria is without a doubt, one of Africa's top business destinations, despite the many challenges the country faces. Doing business in Nigeria comes with a high risk–high opportunity ratio but there are unique benefits and trends with regards to the nation’s economic d e v e l o p m e n t .

Africajumpstart.com lists the following as some of the things that make Nigeria an attractive business destination.

Highest business start-up rate - According to a recent study published by CNN, both Nigeria and Zambia have the highest business start up rate on the continent, at 39.9 percent, followed by Malawi and Ghana. This means that you will be literally surrounded by entrepreneurial spirit. But it

even gets better than that for Nigeria. While many countries report a huge rate of start up discontinuation soon after, Nigeria has by far the biggest success rate. More businesses survive in Nigeria beyond the first five years than anywhere else in Africa.

Hot spot for e-commerce Nigerians are confidently building e-commerce businesses, which are gaining fast in popularity. Nigeria with 28.4 percent, has one of the highest internet penetration rates in sub-Saharan Africa, even overtaking Kenya and South Africa, making it an attractive destination for ecommerce businesses. Popular Nigerian online businesses like Jumia, Konga, or Jovago have not only sparked excitement among consumers, but also among international investors.

Nigeria is well ahead of most countries in terms of ecommerce development and online business presence; and in this regard it is already successfully building the

ground for a globally competitive market.

Large population - Nigeria is Africa's largest nation, with one in five African being a Nigerian. But it not only has the largest population, but also the biggest economy. The importance of combining the two is underscored by Ernst & Young's Africa Attractiveness report, which states that mining will not be Africa's fastest growing sector in the next decade or two, but agriculture and fast-moving consumer products. Putting that into the context of a fastgrowing demography and economy indicates the huge potential Nigeria holds that no other market is currently able to provide in this form. There is immense potential for scalability and for the growth of business within a single African market.

Huge agric potential Nigeria's economy has been heavily dependent on oil revenues in the past, but with a renewed determination by

Vanguard, THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2015 — 23

,

& YOU

dity de

Gas

Change ($) +1.24

% Change +2.61

2.61

-0.03

-1.29

12.20

+0.27

+2.26

136.00

+3.10

+2.33

2,723.00

+24.00

+0.89

the Nigerian government to develop the agricultural sector, it will most certainly become the sector of the future in Nigeria. This will enable entrpreneurs to tap into an industry at the top of the country'sfs development agenda and one that feeds – literally – into the daily needs of a huge population. If you are operating in related industries such as food processing, manufacturing, rural micro-credit, and export you can still expect that the growth of the agricultural sector will be a powerful engine for your business endeavours.

How to establish business in Nigeria The first step to establishing a business enterprise in Nigeria is incorporation of the business at the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) in accordance with the Companies and Allied Matters Act, 1990. The next step is the registration of the company with Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission (NIPC) for the granting of Business Permit.

NIPC also grnats approvals for expatriate quota positions and incentives.

Requirements for business permit - Purchase NIPC form I for N10,000.00. Completed form submitted with original receipt; Certificate of Incorporation; A minimum share capital holding in the joint venture; Details of share

More businesses survive in Nigeria beyond the first five years than anywhere else in Africa

,

How much does your organisation value initiatives?

COMMODITIES (1/04/15) Last 48.84

One of the key functions of leaders is to motivate their people to always wear their initiative hats to work

holding in the joint venture; Joint venture/partnership Agreement where applicable; and Memorandum and Articles of Association. Others are: CAC•fs Form CO2 and CO7 duly certified; Evidence of capital importation for wholly foreign companies; and Approval from the appropriate professional bodies where applicable.

Expariate quota - The following additional requirements have to be met for expatriate quota approvals: Evidence of acquisition of operational premises and operational machinery/equipment in the case of industrial establishment; Evidence of Foreign Capital Importation; Management and Technical Services agreement (for service companies); Tax Clearance Certificate; Minimum authorised share capital of N5 million; Evidence that the personnel required is not likely to be available in Nigeria; and Minimum share capital of N15 million (for two automatic expatriate quota positions) and of N30 million share capital (in case of four automatic expatriate quota positions). Others are: Supply names, address, qualifications and positions to be occupied by the expatriates; Company must produce its project implementation programme; Company must produce a training program for Nigerians in addition to management succession schedule; and Company will furnish its feasibility report where applicable especially for new and prior industries.

Top sectors for business Agriculture and food processing; Banking & finance; ICT; Business services; Fast moving consumer goods; Oil & gas; Metals & mining; Advertising; Securities and ecommerce.

By ‘Uju Onwuzulike “I have been impressed with the urgency of doing.

Knowing is not enough; we must apply. Being willing is not enough; we must do” Leonardo Da Vinci

M

ost times, the ideas that drive the organizations to greatness may not necessarily come from the top management.

As a matter of fact, the power can reside on any one in the organization regardless of his or her title or position. The problem has been that some organizations have not done so much to encourage their employees in one key area that will actually drive the growth and bring about the anticipated results they yearn for. That key area is initiative. The truth of the matter is that any one in an organization that makes use of his or her initiatives can actually turn the organization around for good.

Initiative has been made to be a dormant skill in organizations and yet it has the power to stir growth in organizations even in times of uncertainties. Like Victor Hugo said, initiative is doing the right thing without being told. That means taking actions for the good of your organization without being told is something that has to be made dominant and not dormant. It comes with a high level of commitment and also having a burning desire to do more for your organization. It is also very important for us to know that initiative is a pivotal element in any kind of growth or teamwork, because when people use their initiatives they bring about a chain reaction in others that leads to true synergy and better results.

Having worked in organizations before becoming a consultant and trainer, I have seen situations where organizations have lost business opportunities or contracts, missed deadlines,

BY ‘UJU ONWUZULIKE

Initiative is doing the right thing without being told encountered service failures all because someone out there did not use his or her initiative without delay. I have also seen a situation whereby in the absence of the head of a department (who probably was sick) and on the spot decisions that were supposed to be made – that could have prevented the organization from a lawsuit was not made. That organization has to pay heavily for it. All the events mentioned above arose because people or employees are not being encouraged to use their initiatives or they lack initiatives. One of the key functions of leaders is to motivate their people to always wear their initiative hats to work. Making an organization to be an initiative driven organization cannot work unless the leaders begin to communicate it and also encourage everyone to live by it.

You might ask, how about those that lack initiatives?

The real solution should come from finding the root

causes. In finding the root causes, we need to ask ourselves the following questions: As a boss or manager, do I feel comfortable when my direct report takes actions or decisions in my absence whether good or bad? Do I reprimand my direct report for mistakes associated with actions taken? Do I view their personal actions or decisions as being inferior or without substance? Do I sometimes or always take my views to be the ultimate? Do I feel that nothing good can come from my subordinates?

Let us assume that a manager out there answered yes to all these questions. The truth is that there is no way someone working under that kind of a manager will ever use his or her initiatives no matter how he or she tries. A lot has to done by leaders and managers to ensure that they encourage their people to always be eager to use their initiatives and creative mind at work. One of the ways organizations can do this is to begin to recognize and celebrate employees who have used their initiatives at work. This will send a message to employees that their organizations value and recognize their creative spirits.

Final note: Having employees who can stand on their feet and think for themselves is highly needed in running a high performing organization. This means that making organizations to be an initiative driven organization should be the watch word of leaders and managers. They have to by all means motivate and encourage everyone in their organizations to have initiatives. When they do that, new ideas and new ways of doing things will emerge and your organization will be better for it.

Call or email us for your views or perspectives.

Email: uju@hainescentre.com Mobile: 09091142093 C M Y K

24 — Vanguard, THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2015

External reserves fall by $1.6bn in March

By Babajide Komolafe

T

he declining fortunes of the nation’s external reserve continued last month, as it fell by $1.55 billion during the month.

Data published by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) indicated that the external reserve fell from $31.356 billion on February 27th February to $29.79 billion on Monday, March 30th.

This represents 4.9 percent decline.

Consequently, the external reserve has fallen by $4.49 billion or 13 percent since the beginning of the year.

It would be recalled that the continued decline of the external

Fiscal and external buffers have been eroded significantly as Nigeria enters a period of lower oil prices and are well below the levels of the 2008/09 oil price shock reserve was cited by Fitch credit rating company, for downgrading Nigeria’s credit rating Outlook to ‘Negative’ from ‘Stable’.

A statement issued by the company on Monday said, “Fitch Ratings has affirmed Nigeria’s LongTerm Foreign and Local Currency Issuer Default Ratings (IDRs) at ‘BB-’ and ‘BB’ respectively.

The Outlooks on the Long-Term IDRs have been revised to Negative from Stable. “The revision of Outlook on Nigeria’s IDRs reflects the following key rating drivers and their relative weights: Medium Political uncertainty is heightened in the context of a tightly contested presidential election and potential transition issues. The polls were officially delayed due to security concerns stemming from Boko Haram activity, however violence was very limited on Election Day and challenges were

largely technical in nature. The government has made gains in the past few months in the fight against Boko Haram, but this follows a period in which the group seized large parts of the north east, where the threat remains largely contained.

“Fiscal and external buffers have been eroded significantly as Nigeria enters a period of lower oil prices and are well below the levels

of the 2008/09 oil price shock. Oil accounts for around 60% of fiscal revenues and 75% of current external receipts.

The Excess Crude Account (ECA, the key fiscal buffer) stood at $2 billion at end-2014, down from $19.7 billion at end-2008. Foreign exchange reserves were equivalent to 3.8 months of current external payments at end-2014, compared with 7.8 months at end-2008.

Fitch does not expect savings to be rebuilt significantly by end2016. High dependence on oil revenues will cause the external position to deteriorate despite a rapid policy response.

“Fitch forecasts the current account to fall into deficit in 2015 for the first time since 1998 owing to lower oil prices.

A modest surplus is expected in 2016.

Economic performance is

likely to weaken, although non-oil growth will remain robust. Real non-oil growth is forecast to slow to 5.5% in 2015, from 7.4% in 2014 and an average of 5.6% over the past five years. Non-oil growth will be hit by the devaluation of the naira and election-related uncertainty, but will be less impacted by fiscal consolidation due to the small size of the government”.

BRIEFS

Stanbic IBTC Bank opens branch in Kano

S

tanbic IBTC Bank has commissioned a new branch in Kano. The branch, located on the new campus of Bayero University Kano, is in fulfillment of the bank’s commitment to broaden its service channels and, in so doing, bring world class financial services closer to the residents.

The new office is an additional avenue for Stanbic IBTC Bank to meet the financial needs of its clientele and demonstrates the bank’s commitment to strengthen its retail banking portfolio. “The new branch reinforces the bank’s promise of convenience and accessibility to a full suite of financial products and services to the university community and other Kano residents,” said Mr Lincoln Mali, Head, Personal and Business Banking West Africa Region, Standard Bank.

Efficient service delivery

BRIEFING: From left: Anthony Kayode Adebayo, Deputy Dean, Student Affairs, University of Lagos; Cosmas Maduka, President and Chairman, Coscharis Group and Bridget Udemeh, Relationship Manager, Sterling Bank Plc at the 2015 press conference of members of the Society of Landscape Architecture Students of Nigeria supported by the bank in Lagos.

Fidelity Bank profitability rises 72% to N15.5bn

F

idelity Bank Plc has recorded 72 percent increase in its profit before tax for the year ending December 31st 2014.

The audited financial statement of the bank showed that profit before tax rose to N15.5 billion from N9.0 billion in 2013.

Consequently, the bank has proposed a dividend payout of 18 kobo per share for its shareholders, representing 29 percent increase when compared to 18 kobo from 14 kobo in 2013.

The financial statement showed that the bank recorded 21 percent increase in Interest income to N104.3bn from N86.3bn in 2013, while Operating Income increased by 15 percent to N72.6 billion from N63.3 billion in 2013.

Total expenses increased by five percent to N57.1 billion n from N54.3 billion, while Profit after Tax increased by 79 percent to N13.8 billion from N7.7 billion in 2013.

During the year, Customer Deposits increased by two percent to N820.0 billion from N806.3 billion while Net Loans and Advances increased by 27 percent

to N541.7 billion from N426.1 billion. The Bank’s Total Equity increased by six percent to N173.1 billion from N163.5 billion while Total Assets increased by 10 percent to N1.187 trillion from N1.081 trillion in 2013.

Commenting on the result, Nnamdi Okonkwo, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Fidelity Bank plc said, “Our 2014 performance is a testament to the significantly improved optimization of our balance sheet. PBT growth of 72 percent was driven by a 27 percent growth in the loan book while cost of funds declined over the period. This translated to a 58 percent growth in net interest income and a 200 basis points growth in Net Interest Margin (NIM) to 6.0 percent. Cost of risk normalized to 0.8 percent from1.9 percent in the 2013.

“Our retail banking strategy gathered increased momentum in 2014 with the bank acquiring over 471,000 new retail customers and core low-cost retail deposits grew

by 18% which impacted positively on our funding cost.

We also witnessed improved operational efficiency as the bank leveraged alternative electronic channels to reduce our cost to serve, operating expenses (excluding regulatory costs) grew by three percent year-on-year which was significantly below the inflation rate.

“Key regulatory ratios remained well above set limits which have resulted in the bank paying a dividend of 18k per share which translates to a dividend yield of 11.5 percent.

“Though the operating environment remains challenging due to strong macro-economic headwinds, we remain committed to the execution of our medium term strategic objectives which are focused on the Retail/SME/EBanking/Niche Corporate Banking segments. We are confident of delivering another positive set of results in the 2015.”

“We want to build a network of branches in Nigeria where customers are offered the right services. Our target is to have the best branch network where quality and efficient service delivery is second to none,” said Mali.

Abiodun Gbadamosi, Head of Customer Channels at Stanbic IBTC Bank, said the new branch is expected to accommodate the growing need for full financial services in the university community and its environs even as he assured Kano residents of Stanbic IBTC Bank’s resolve to continue to provide quality services.

He also revealed that the bank has plans to establish more branches across the country as it expands its operations.

“Stanbic IBTC Bank currently has over 180 branches nationwide. Our retail banking business operates a network of over 2,500 mobile money agents and we are succeeding in taking banking services to the under-banked. Stanbic IBTC would not only be focused on attracting the unbanked population though; we are also poised to create products targeted at customers who may be banked but unhappy with their banks,” he said.

Vanguard, THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2015 — 25

LECTURE: From left: Dr. Joseph Odumodu, Director-General, Standard Organisation of Nigeria, SON, guest lecturer at the 16th Enugu State University

of Technology, ESUT, Convocation lecture; Dr. Chilo Offiah, Pro- Chancellor ESUT, Prof. Chinedu Nebo, Minister of Power; Chancellor, Amb. Hassan Adamu (Wakili Adamawa) and Prof. Cyprian Onyeji Vice- Chancellor ESUT during the Convocation lecture.

WAEC INT’L EXCELLENCE AWARD:

Nigerian students not among best two in 5yrs

I

By Dayo Adesulu

T was rather worrisome when the WAEC Inter national Excellence Award Winners for May/June 2014 WASSCE was announced and no Nigerian

Students charged to maintain Nigerian accent

Award prizes respectively.

Hasan Mickail 18, who attended

The three International Excellence Award winners as announced this year are all males from Ghana

Continues on page 26

Curriculum shift: A future without HISTORY? Pg. 27

By Amaka Abayomi & Laju Iren he labour of our heroes past shall never be in vain.

Ten year old Ikenna Chukwudi sings this line of the national anthem every school morning. It is hardly his fault that he has no idea who these ‘heroes’ are. The Nnamdi Azikiwes, Tafawa Balewas, and Anthony Enahoros are strange to him; so are King Jaja of Opobo, Nana of Itsekiri land, Usman Dan Fodio and Queen Amina of Zaria.

He isn’t the only one in this category; others in his generation are much more familiar with the release date of the iPhone 6 than October 1st. Over one year into the new educational curriculum, which blends the History subject with Social studies and Government, things are bound to get worse.

T

ESUT churns out 10,920 graduates as Chime lauds VC Pg. 28 C M Y K

student was among the best three as Ghana clinched first, second and third in the international prestigious awards.

When the winners were announced recently in Ikeja, Lagos, in the presence of WAEC representatives in West Africa, it was disclosed that Master Hasan Mickail, Master Kenyah Blaykyi and Master Archibald Henry all from Ghana got the first, second and third positions at the International Excellence

Ghana Secondary Technical School, Takoradi during May/June, 2014 WASSCE made eight A1 in Mathematics (core), Mathematics (elective), Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Integrated Science, Social Studies and English Language with a total score of 682.0933.

Following Hasan closely was Kenyah Blaykyi 19, who attended St. Augustine’s College, Cape Coast scored eight A1 in eight subjects including English Language and Mathematics with total score of 680.4287.

Third prize which went to Archibald Henry 18, from Mfantsipim School, Cape Coast, had A1 in eight subjects including English Language and Mathematics.

His total score was 676.9348.

It is note worthy that the three International Excellence Award winners as announced this year are all males from Ghana.

Speaking in an earlier interview, the Executive Secretary, Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council, NERDC, Professor Godswill Obioma, said what was done was to streamline subjects in the new curriculum for greater efficiency.

“What we have done is to ensure harmony because there were repetitions in the old curriculum. For example, subjects that are strictly civic education that have to do with national values and civic responsibilities had been properly put under Civic Education while those that are strictly social studies, which have to do with government, history, geography and social relationship of communities, have been put under Social Studies.

Continues on page 26

26 — Vanguard, THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2015

CURRICULUM SHIFT: A future without HISTORY? Continues from page 25

VISIT: From left: Oluseye Thomas, Business Manager, Oshogbo Branch and Akinleye Ogunleye, Regional Manager, Ibadan Region all of Diamond Bank; Omotoso Oluwaseun, Head Boy, Henry Alex-Duduyemi Memorial College, HAMEC, Ile-Ife; Mrs Deborah Akinpelu, Principal, HAMEC; Esther Onwu, a student of HAMEC; Dele Falade, Business Manager, Ilorin Branch and Titilola Alabi, Team Lead, Corporate Social Responsibility, all of Diamond Bank during a visit of the bank's staff to the school as part of activities marking the 2015 Financial Literacy Day in Ile-Ife, Osun State.

WAEC Int’l Excellence: Nigerian students not among best two in 5yrs Continues from page 25 Incidentally, in 2013 Ghanian students also won the three prestigious International Excellence Awards, where two females, Miss Ivy Ama Mannoh and Miss Rhoda Adu-Boafo emerged first and second respectively. Followed by Master Mwinmaarong Lucio Dery all from Ghana who emerged third.

Also, Ghanian students have registered themselves as best candidates in West Africa, by repeating the same feat in 2012, when they clinched the first, second and third positions. Record shows that in 2012 WASSCE, Miss Yvette Yeboah-Kordieh, Master Josbert Ayambire and Master Bright Seyram Tsevi all of Ghana emerged first, second and third respectively.

Ghanaian students It will interest you to note that in 2011 WASSCE, Ghanaian students also emerged first and second beating Miss Adeloye Ope from Nigeria who emerged third.

In 2010, no winner emerged. However, in 2008 and 2009, Ghanian students took the first, second and third positions in the West African examination.

It will be right to assert that for Ghanian students to have won this prestigious international award for five consecutive years, its secondary school education system must be superb and worthy of emulation.

The last time Nigerian students won was in 2007, when its students came first consistently from 2002 to 2007. What has happened to Nigeria's secondary school educational system from 2008 to 2013 that no Nigerian students has emerged first or second in WASSCE? Speaking at the WAEC

63rd Annual Council Meeting held in Lagos last week, its registrar, Dr. Iyi Uwadiae said: “The three candidates were selected from a total of 2,018,497 candidates who sat for the examination in the Gambia, Ghana, Liberia, Nigeria and Sierra Leone.’’

He noted that in addition to the first prize, the Augustus Bandele Oyediran Award for the Best candidate in West Africa will be presented to Master Mickail Hasan, the overall best student.

In the breakdown, he said: ‘’A total of 2,450,626 candidates sat the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) in all the member countries in 2014. Out of this total figure, 2,018,497 candidates sat the May/June WASSCE conducted for school candidates while 432,129 candidates sat the November/December WASSCE as private candidates.”

According to him, the 2014 candidature showed a decrease of 140,161 candidates which was about

For Ghanaian students to have won this prestigious international award for five consecutive years, its secondary school education system must be superb and worthy of emulation

5.41 per cent below the 2013 figure of 2,590,787 and a decrease of 97,604 candidates which was 3.85 per cent below the 2012 figure of 2,548,230.

The Registrar who lauded WAEC for efficient conduct of the examination, noted that leakages of question papers did not occur in any office of WAEC in 2014. He, however lamented that other forms of malpractice featured in the conduct of the Council’s examinations in all the member countries.

Member countries ‘’The fight against examination malpractice is rigorous and the weapons are expensive,’’ he said.

According to him, the National offices have intensified their efforts at eradicating the malaise through various strategies, such as extensive group briefings or meetings. Other media including stakeholders’ dialogue, prime space media advertorials and the use of metal detectors among others.

Uwadiae however averred that the afore mentioned effort would soon be rendered futile if all other stakeholders remain indifferent leaving WAEC to wrestle with the highly sophisticated, innovative and resilient perpetrators. He urged member governments and other stakeholders in education to resume a fierce battle against examination malpractice to safeguard the integrity of public examinations in our Sub-region.

"We used to have 20 single subjects listing. We had English as a subject, mathematics, basic science, basic technology, then languages under this listing, if you count them one by one, it will be 20. But in the new curriculum, we have been able to reorganise them into a maximum of 10.”

In the big picture, however, what could this ‘greater efficiency’ mean for the future of the country? Barrister Aderemi Brito, a lecturer of History and International Diplomacy, Lagos State University, gives a gloomy answer to this question.

“It is very unlikely that our society would be able to move forward without the study of history at the primary and secondary levels. History is the study of the past in relation to the present and the future. We can’t move forward if we do not know where we are coming from.”

For the National Coordinator, Education Rights Campaign, Mr. Hassan Soweto, there is the urgent need to review the neo-colonial market-driven curriculum to ensure that we produce graduates that meet the requirement of the capitalist market.

Educational stakeholders “As education stakeholders at a recent National Summit organised by ASUU, SSANU, NASU and NAAT agreed, there is the need for a liberating education curriculum focused on educating Nigerians to be conscious of their history, to be equipped with the right ideas not only to contribute to society through their labour but also to liberate our country from imperialist domination and at all times defend the principles of freedom, liberty and community.

“Instead of the sense of community, our students are being taught individualism; instead of the real history of Africa and its people, students are being taught that Mongo Park discovered the River Niger. Instead of the dignity of labour, our students are being taught the benefits of the get-rich quick culture of the stock market” Soweto

Instead of scrapping the subject, policy makers should focus on cultural awareness and sensitization of man power in handling the subject to keep students from losing interest in it

posited.

The Principal of Excel College Lagos, Mrs. Grace Oke, described the act as a disaster that is borne out of ignorance on the subject’s significance. She likened the deed to that which could impede the fight to foster unity in a nation like Nigeria that is comprised of various ethnic groups and thus expressed that the subject should be brought back to the curriculum.

She situated that History as a subject be made mandatory from the primary to the tertiary level because a people that forget their history can never develop.

Oke said: “Trying to build a nation like Nigeria without the knowledge of the history of the people is like building a castle in the air. Being a heterogeneous society, to bring unity in diversity so as to live together, Nigerian history must be taught as a compulsory subject from primary school to the university irrespective of one’s course of study.”

Broadening their horizons She also posited that the removal of the subject would lead to its extinction in the nearest future and cause the nation to regret the act.

According to her, the step has affected the students academically because they have lost some core values which history was meant to instill in them and help to broaden their horizons.

The Vice-Principal of Salama High School, Jos, Mr. Harrison Oghenoronva, also lent his voice, saying “History plays a very important role in our national development, we need to go back to history and past events for reference purposes. We need History in order to know our roots and make sense of the present.”

Another teacher in Lagos, Mrs. Patience Ihuoma, said “By studying the choices and decision of the past, students can confront today’s problems and choices with a deeper awareness of the alternatives before them and the likely consequences of each. So I think History is recommended for schools not scrapped.”

These educationists also debated on the ability of subjects such as Government and Social studies, to fill in the void which the lack of History has created.

Ogheneronva said: “When we talk about History and Government as subjects, you discover that they are not the same thing. Government deals with administration and current affairs while History deals with past events and culture. Instead of scrapping the subject, policy makers should focus on cultural awareness and sensitization of man power in handling of the subject, to keep students from losing interest in it.”

Vanguard, THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2015 — 27

Students charged to maintain Nigerian accent

By Dayo Adesulu

O

Cross section of graduate interns during Graduate Intensive Scheme (GIS) organised by SURE-P for graduates in Lagos.

GIS gets feedback as intern-ship training ends in Lagos

By Bashir Adefaka and Damilola Igbedion

T

HE three-day graduate internship orientation training programme started in Lagos on Monday ended Wednesday with interns and firms' representatives rating the Subsidy Reinvestment and Empowerment Programme, SURE-P, office organized programme.

Many of the interns and representatives of their firms of attachment saw the programme as laudable and truly working for the better of the Nigerian society. They however craved the indulgence of operators of the government to ensure that the mentoring programme for young graduate interns was sustained.

The three-day mentoring programme, put together by the office of the SURE-P of the Federal Ministry of Finance in collaboration with Axiom Learning Solutions Limited, a technical consulting firm in the training programme, was held in the PSSDC Centre,

The training programme has definitely achieved the goals and purpose that it was set for

Students write first Cowbell Maths exam

By Dayo Adesulu

C

owbell has reiterated its commitment to boosting the study of Mathematics among students stating that Mathematics is the bedrock of Science and technology.

Speaking at the first stage of the examination for National Secondary School Mathematics Competition, NASSMAC, held at the Immaculate Heart Secondary School, Maryland, Lagos, Mr Abiodun Ayodeji, Category Manager Dairy said; "The Cowbell Secondary School Mathematics Competition encourages the study of mathematics because mathematics is the bedrock of Science which is the bedrock of innovation.’’

At the centre in Maryland, no fewer than 600 students from junior and senior secondary schools in Lagos wrote the examination under

strict supervision.

According to him, in Nigeria, NASSMAC has 184 centres in various states of the federation and in the FCT, Abuja where the examination is held.

Ayodeji who disclosed that the prizes of the competitions has been increased to 62 per cent, noted that the total prize money have moved from 350, 000 to 750, 000 for the first prize. While second prize to get 500, 000.

To further take the campaign of mathematics to students, Ayodeji averred that Cowbell has started a radio programme on 15 channels. "We nourish them with our Cowbell product, why can’t we nourish their brain too. The topics taught during the programme follow the school syllabus so that when you listen to the programme there is no way you will not improve in mathematics."

Magodo GRA Phase II, Ikeja, Lagos.

According to Director of the Graduate Intensive Scheme, GIS, in the SURE-P office, Mr. Peter Pakpa, whose address was read by Kemi Fatoki during the opening ceremony, the training programme is in line with the transformation agenda of President Goodluck Jonathan intended particularly to make otherwise unemployable graduates fit into the employment sector.

The government of the federation is responsible for training cost and N30,000 monthly salary paid to each intern for the one year internship period with strict monitoring that ensures that fund is not intercepted by any of the employers to whom the interns are attached.

Apparently delighted that the aim of the federal government has been achieved, Mr. Ani Charles Bassey-Eyo, who is the director of Axiom Learning Solutions Limited, enthused; “We have delivered absolutely, I would say that we have delivered in our own part as technical partners in this training programme.

This is going on all over the country giving training to interns. Today is the third day and I can see the interns thoroughly engaged. They were very appreciative of the Federal Government providing this platform and they left more motivated. I think most of them left feeling like entrepreneurs.

“So, I would say that the training programme has definitely achieved the goals and purpose that it was set for. Now they move on to their firms where they will be working for the next one year. Most of these trainees and interns have been unemployable.

VER 500 parents last Saturday were charged not to dissuade their children from having a Nigerian accent while speaking English Language adding that it is a slap to our culture.

The Executive Director, Caleb Group of Schools ,Mrs Dolapo Ogunbanwo who gave this charge said: “Don’t let your children apologize for three things; the way they sound while speaking English Language, their physique and where they hale from.

Speaking in a parenting workshop organised by Sterling Bank Plc, Ogunbanwo explained that in as much as a child can speak correct English, he should not be persuaded to speak Queen’s English or use British accent. She said: “You already have a Nigerian accent, maintain it. Do not hide where you hale from. Let your children be proud of their Nigerian accent and where they hale from. If they have any reason to listen to you when you speak, they should be the ones to learn your accent.

Ogunbanwo while speaking on the theme Understanding Developmental Stages: What parents must do to maximize potential, said that stimulating encouragement and correct motivation should be given to

children “Every thing we go through has a lesson to learn.

Provide the support children need to get better.”

Meanwhile, the Brand Manager, Sterling Bank Plc, Mrs Olapeju Ibepe said: “Sterling Bank is partnering Caleb Group of Schools to boost education because we believe that education is the bedrock of any individual.” She disclosed that the objective of the workshop is teach parents what they must know about their children to maximize the potentials in them.

According to her any person without education is not fit to lead anybody. Her words: “We are to support value added initiatives that will encourage education.

We realised that people go to school to learn different subjects but nothing that teaches parents to be parents. We realised that there is a vacuum that should be filled.

This is the maiden edition of the parenting series to empower parents to give their best to their children, economically, socially and spiritually.

Today. We find house helps raising children for parents which should not be the case. We realized that parents have to work to make ends meet, but this should not be at the expense of raising responsible children for better tomorrow.

GEC to launch IFYP of Debrecen varsity

B

ECAUSE of its efforts, credibility, confidence and long working relationship with the University of Debrecen, Global Education Counselling has been authorized to run the International Foundation Year Programme, IFYP, of the University of Debrecen at their GEC MET Campus inLekki, Lagos.

The programme which is identical to the one taught at theUniversity of Debrecen Hungary will give Nigerian students opportunity toprepare.

Speaking at the event, the CEO of Global Education Counselling, Mr Theo Theodorou said students who have successfully completed the IFYP with the appropriate academic results will be guaranteed a place in the Universityof Debrecen Bachelor Degree programmes without requiring to sit for their external examination and interview or travel to the University.

According to Mr Theodorou, Global Education Counselling has over the years assisted Nigerian students in finding the most appropriate universities abroad. “We have

developed to become one of the most active and well respected organisations in the field of University placement, the whole idea is to take academically qualified Nigerian students tostudy abroad and come back to build Nigeria which is very crucial to thecountry.”

He expressed delight as regards the partnership with the University of Debrecen, saying its first programme in Africa that has been allowed to be taught outside the University. This is because of their long working relationship with the provision of over 350 quality Nigerian students to the University within four and five years.

Mr Theodorou alsoacknowleged Nigerian students excellent performance academically and morally inforeign schools. Speaking on the purpose of the foundation, the representative of University of Debrecen Hungary and Associate professor in charge of All Humanities programmes DR Laszlo Kozma says IFYP is a preparing ground and year forstudents who have WAEC,SSCE or NECO result before they could be admitted intothe university.

28 — Vanguard, THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2015

ESUT churns out 10,920 graduates as Chime lauds VC

T

HE Vice-Chancellor, Samuel Adegboyega University, Edo State, Professor Benard Aigbokhan, has said the university is not listed for de-accreditation by the National Universities Commission.”

PUNCH, March 7, 2015, p 9. ” CAVEAT EMPTOR” (BUYER BEWARE).

By Dayo Adesulu

G

OVERNOR Sullivan Chime of of Enugu State has commended the ViceChancellor of the Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT), Professor Cyprian Ogbonna Onyeji and the University’s Governing Council for the on going tremendous and remarkable transformation on the overall state of the university especially in the last five years.

The Governor, who was represented by the Deputy Governor of Enugu State, Rev Ralph Nwonye, at the University’s 16thconvocation ceremony for the 11,456 graduands of the 2011/2012 and 2012/ 2013 academic session of the University, explained that the commendation of the Vice – Chancellor and the Governing council over the achievements recorded especially in the area of general pursuit of academic excellence, physical infrastructural development and maintenance, rigorous drive for improve funding and staff development and the general welfare for the staff and students. The Governor, who described ESUT, as an embodiment of what a higher standard educational Institution is all about, stressed that over the years the Enugu State Government Police has always been anchored on strong emphasis on the citizens rights to quality education so as to be meaningful and responsible citizens first to

From right: Vice-Chancellor, ESUT, Prof. Cyprian Onyeji welcoming the Enugu State Deputy Governor, Rev. Ralph Nwoye to the 16th convocation ceremony of ESUT at Agbani, Enugu State. themselves and then to the larger society in general.

In his welcoming address on the 16 th convocation ceremonies the university Vice – Chancellor Prof Cyprian Onyeji. who went memory lane, disclosed that to get to current transformational status of the University, on assumption of office he realized that if the administration must succeed, there was the need to motivate staff members to key into his vision and mission and

What we have done is to reverse the declining tide and put it on the irreversible part of growth

make things to work.

Therefore, “ a well thought out and articulated program designed to tapping the strength, improving on the achievements and redressing the deficiencies in the University. we came up with a six point agenda encapsulating imaginative strategies aimed at reinventing and repositioning the University to respond effectively to the challenges which the st 21 century has engendered”.

According to the ViceChancellor, the general transformation landmark achievement recorded by the University does not in anyway suggest that the University has reached it sets goals. And that, “ESUT, Infrastructure-wise, is a work in progress, what we have done is to reverse the declining tide and put it on the irreversible part of growth.

Lagoon School sensitises women on health

B

orne out of its desire to ensure women are informed and have access to safe and effective methods of family planning, the Lagoon School – an all-female secondary school – based in Lekki, recently organized a health seminar for mothers.

Facilitated by Doctors Health Initiative – a Lagos-based – non-governmental organization, the seminar sought to expose the harmful side effects and dangers associated with some modes of family planning.

D r. Nkechi Asogwa, Secretary, Doctors Health Initiative, listed them to include: abortion, contraceptives and Assisted Reproduction Techniques (ART), such as: parental testing, embryonic research and cloning. In the course of the lecture, Asogwa explained how these methods of family planning affect human dignity and rights of women. She also revealed how certain sections C M Y K

FG approves new universities (2)

*From right: Mr. Theo Theodorou, CEO and Principal of GEC MET, Prof. Laszlo Kozma; Director of the Dept of Humanities, University of Debrecen and Mrs Amaka Enweluani, Registrar, GEC at the launch of IFYP in Lagos. in Nigeria’s new National Health Act promotes such practices.

Highlighting negative consequences associated with abortion, Asogwa said it deliberately leads to the termination of innocent human life from the first moment of its existence and conception. This, she noted, is unjust and discriminatory since it denies an entity of its right to existence based on its level of development.

On the dangers associated with contraceptives, she said research has associated oral contraceptives, with an increased risk of cancer-related ailments among women.

She added that Assisted Reproduction Techniques – such as in vitro fertilization (IVF), surrogacy and egg donation – raises questions about its moral justification, as some young ladies are being lured into trading their ovarian eggs for plainly financial motives.

First of all, a correction is necessary.

Samuel Adegboyega University was last week listed among universities in Ogun State.

Sorry about that; my old eyes jumped to the wrong line on addresses. It is in Edo State.

However, the protest by Professor Aigbokhan, regarding accreditation points to one of the major problems the universities and the other stakeholders, especially students and guardians, are going to face from now on.

Important decision

one whole day there. Despite that, I made a blunder. The course for which the boy was admitted was un-accredited. But, I did not know at the time. Having studied in the United States, where regulations are tough, it just never occurred to me that a university would admit students for courses and on graduation offer them worthless certificates.

I recommended the university with some reservations.

It was a year after that my mistake became apparent. The first set of graduates had applied for NYSC service and had been turned down because the courses were not fully accredited. My cousin’s son informed me about this development and soon we were in search of another university for him. Thereafter, I swore never to be deceived by attractive physical structures alone, but to go further and ask twenty questions and verify the answers before recommending a university to anybody.

Professor Aigbokhan was reported to have said that the university received assessment scores of “between 75 and 83 per cent” for the courses on offer.

Among them are Accounting, Economics, Biochemistry and Microbiology – to mention a few.

I would not dispute the statement.

Despite the rapid advance in literacy, most Nigerians are still not knowledgeable enough to know the right questions they should ask before committing their kids and resources to a particular university. More than ever before, prospective students and their parents or guardians should seek Disputing the independent advice before statement making the commitment. It However, my experience, since might be the most important decision they will make 2004, with the assessments concerning the lives of the kids. reveals that the Nigerian Factor Let me provide a personal is prevalent when they are undertaken. Let me give one example.

In 2004, one of my cousins example.

When, in the mid-2000s, one called me to announce that his son who had tried in vain to of our colleagues resigned his gain admission to University of appointment with VANGUARD Lagos, University of Ibadan to join one of the private and University of Benin had universities on account of enhanced been offered admission by one promised of the three first private remuneration package, he was universities in Nigeria. He also lured there by the promise wanted my opinion on the that he could pursue postmatter. Fortunately, I was on a graduate course leading to tour from Lagos to the East such Masters Degree. To further as would make it possible for convince him, the brochure me to touch three universities handed to him included the That, as it turned out, was the names of leading Nigerian academics in every beginning of my Most faculty. Their names long interest in (withheld of course) N i g e r i a n Nigerians are and presence had universities. My still not been lent to the cousin’s son knowledgeable university – just for the suddenly became my son and enough to know a c c r e d i t a t i o n assessment. With the every young boy the right provisional approval or girl seeking questions they granted, each of them university had returned to their a d m i s s i o n should ask universities. A few became mine. I before would come made up my occasionally to teach mind to give the committing courses. But, for the same advice I their kids and most part, several of would if it was my resources to a them were rented. son involved. I particular went to the university; I university actually spent

Vanguard, THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2015 — 29

Research & Development

Researchers invent fever alarm armband

By Ebele Orakpo

F

EVER, also known as high fever, high temperature, pyrexia or febrile response, is defined as a body temperature above the normal range due to an increase in the temperature regulatory set-point.

Experts agree that a fever in itself, is not an illness but usually a symptom of an underlying condition, often an infection.

Fever is a natural bodily defence against infection. What happens is that the hypothalamus (a part of the brain which controls body temperature) resets the body to a higher temperature in response to an infection, illness or a foreign body in the system. For instance, high fever can be a sign of a life-threatening infection and it can cause seizures in children.

Fevers can indicate the presence of lung, ear, skin, bladder, throat, or kidney infections; cancer, blood clots, autoimmune diseases, hormone disorders, illegal drugs such as cocaine etc. so the earlier it is detected and tackled, the better.

To help in early detection of fever and the underlying condition and subsequent treatment, researchers at the University of Tokyo have developed a fever alarm armband, “a flexible, selfpowered wearable device that sounds an alarm in case of high body temperature.”

High boody temperature According to a release by the research groups led by Professor Takayasu Sakurai at the Institute of Industrial Science and Professor Takao Someya at the Graduate School of Engineering, the device which was presented at this year’s IEEE International Solid State Circuits Conference in San Francisco, California, USA, is 30 cm long and 18 cm wide and combines a flexible amorphous silicon solar panel, piezoelectric speaker, temperature sensor and power supply circuit created with organic components in a single flexible, wearable package. It can be worn either directly on the skin or on top of clothing. The device is designed in such a way that the thermal sensor is located between the arm and the body.

"The organic power supply circuit is located under the piezo film speaker to reduce surface area."

The researchers recognised the fact that "constant monitoring of health indicators such as heart rate and body temperature is the focus of intense interest in the fields of infant, elderly and patient care and sensors for such applications need to be flexible and wireless for patient comfort, maintenance-free and not requiring external energy supply,

*Hypothalamus. Courtesy:

and cheap enough to permit disposable use to ensure hygiene."

They developed a flexible solution that incorporates organic components that can

be printed by an inkjet printer on a polymeric film as conventional sensors based on rigid components are unable to meet these requirements.

The fever alarm armband is the first organic circuit able to produce a sound output,which enables it to provide audible information when the flexible thermal sensor detects a pre-set value within the ranges of 36.5 oC to 38.5 oC. The device is also the first to incorporate an organic power supply circuit which increases the range of operational illumination by 7.3 times in indoor lighting conditions.

“Our fever alarm armband

brainmadesimple.com demonstrates that it is possible to produce flexible, disposable devices that can greatly enhance the amount of information available to carers in healthcare settings,” says Prof. Someya. “We have demonstrated the technology with a temperature sensor and fever alarm, but the system could also be adapted to provide audible feedback on body temperature, or combined with other sensors to register wetness, pressure or heart rate.”

Winners emerge at TUMA maths competition

By Chris Onuoha

A

WARDS were given to the successful pupils who participated in The Ultimate Mathematics Ambassador, TUMA, competition recently in Ota, Ogun State.

The Ambassador College Ota which has set a standard in championing the cause to eliminate mathematics phobia militating against student’s performance in schools feted dignitaries, parent and pupils to a memorable ceremony at the school’s premises.

Nine year old Master Akinleye Akinfoluhan Akintobi of St Benerdatte School, Ipaja, Lagos emerging as the overall best, winning the prestigious prize of N125,000 with a plaque He was followed by Sarah

Busolami Akingbade of Frontliners School, Agbado, winning N100,000 and a plaque while Faridat Modesola Giwa of Tomobid School, Ikeja was third winning with N75, 000 and a plaque.

The chairman of the Ambassadors school, Mr. Samson Yomi Osewa in his

We chose primary school pupils for now because we believe everybody can know mathematics if well exposed to it

opening speech said that the award ceremony was a way of sowing back to the society. “We are asking pupils of primary school to come together and do a competition that will make them learn mathematics and we call it “The Ultimate Mathematics Ambassador” TUMA, because anybody who is expected to win will score a very good aggregate. This year, 228 schools with about 600 pupils participated and today ’s programme is to give award to all winners from each school. In the competition everybody is a winner, but special winners are the ten from different schools selected for high prizes.”

According the Osewa, “We chose primary school pupils for now because we believe everybody can know

mathematics if well exposed to it. The phobia starts from the parents. They should let the children know that they can achieve all things and that’s why we are starting from them.”

Osewa said that they have recorded success in Lagos and Ogun State and from next year, the participation will go beyond this horizon until the entire nation is covered.

The TUMA competition meant for primary school pupils in its third year running is an initiative of the Ambassadors Schools, Ota, Ogun State and it is basically a contest for pupils as a way of bridging the gap the mathematics phobia has created in young talents who sees science courses as too difficult.

Blame student low performance on Nigeria education administration —Bamidele

By Gabriel Olawale

A

specialist in enrolling Nigerian students for international education and the Managing Director of Management Education and Training, MET, Mr Bamidele Omotosho has faulted education administration in the country for student’s academic low performance.

Speaking during the commissioning of MET new cooperate structure in Lagos, Omotosho said that the education curriculum in the country still ranks among the best in the whole world but the administrative procedure is

really bad.

“Our educational administration in this country is poor and it doesn’t bring out the best in our students. When you look at certain issues like ratio of studenst to teacher, size of library in which some schools don’t even have and environmental facilities like lodge, transportation, light to study, teacher motivation among others is greatly affecting our students performance.

“When I was in University of Ibadan in the 60’s nobody was interested in going abroad to study because the

environment was good. The student population then was around 3,000 and with the same structure now maybe with little improvement they have about 30,000.”

While comparing Nigerian students' performance to the world, Omotosho noted that foreign exams have shown that they are academically sound and brilliant, “many of our students' perform well and go on scholarship to show that our own educational structure is not bad.” Omotosho said that the reason why many Nigerian students perform well outside the country is as a result of their administration, “their

infrastructure is better and the ratio of student to teacher is lower.

Averagely, their number of student to teacher is about 20 to 1 but here in Nigeria it can be up to 200 to one. There the environment is better and facilities are better, so when you now take people who already have the potentials academically and genetics to good environment they excel.

On his part, MET chairman, Mr Gboyega Fatimilehin explained that the newly commissioned building ia aimed at making learning easy and conducive for the students.

30 — Vanguard, THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2015

2015 Education survey: We need proper funding, NPC tells FG

SUCCESS RECIPE WITH UDEME ARCHIBONG successrecipe2009@gmail.com www.worldlightbearesint.com 08035095243

By Caleb Ayasina

T

HE Project Coordinator 2015 Nigeria Education Data Survey (NEDS) organised by the National Population Commission (NPC), Amaka Ezinwa, has called for the proper funding of the programme by the Federal Government to ensure adequate planning for Education in the country.

Vanguard gathered that the survey to be concluded by December 2015 has about 300 data collectors currently passing through the training, and it will cover not less than 72, 000 children living in 30, 000 households across the country.

The programme was solely funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID-Nigeria) without counterpart funding from the Federal Government.

Ezinwa, who made the appeal in an interview with newsmen at opening ceremony of training for Data collectors for the 2015 NEDS

The key to change (1)) H

*From left: Okeleye Kehinde, Director of Studies, Molaks High School, Iju Ishaga; Elijah Olu Adewale, former Special Adviser on Education, Lagos State and Yellow House Patron; Mrs Okeleye Temitope, Proprietress, and Mr.Oloke Abidemi, Principal at the Inter House Sports competition of MOLAKS Schools in Lagos. in Saminaka, Kaduna state, decried the dwelling nature of Education standard, adding that they intend to produce policy briefs to assist decision makers develop education system in the country.

“We will appreciate if the government can assist Nigeria, though the Government of Nigeria is participating in terms of providing technical

manpower,” She said.

In his remarks, Chairman, National Population Commission, NPC, Chief Eze Duruiheoma, explained that the survey was designed to generate information on the educational status of the Nigerian population and expectedly, the interviewers will ask a wide range of questions.

Kammonke, 16-year-old Nigerian selected as 2015 Global Scholar

A

16-year old Nigerian, Mr. Obase-wotta Kammonke, has been selected to serve as a Global Scholar at the 2015 Global Young Leaders Conference (GYLC).

In a letter conveying this honour, and signed by Marguerite C. Regan, Dean of Academic Affairs, Global Young Leaders Conference, Obase-wotta’s invitation to represent Nigeria places him among a very select group of top students across the world based on their “demonstrated leadership potential.”

As a distinguished Global Scholar, Obase-wotta will have the option of participating in one of the three distinct programs: the United States program, to be held in Washington, DC and New York City; the China programme, which will be held in Beijing, Hangzhou

and Shanghai; or the Europe program, which will take place in Vienna, Prague and Berlin.

GYLC is a 10-day leadership journey that helps students adopt international leadership strategies, embrace diverse cultures and backgrounds, and appreciate unique ways of thinking and seeing the world.

Attracting the most motivated students from across the United States and more than 155 countries, the program prepares students to succeed in multicultural environments with confidence, independence and skill.

Obase-wotta attended the Surefoot International School, Calabar and the Graceland Schools, Uyo. He led SIS to a state-wide French Competition victory, he won the Association of Interna-

tional Schools, AISA, international art competition and was among the 12 artists chosen across Africa; his art work was used in the organisation’s calendar in 2012.

He is a model, as well as sports analyst in Cross River Broadcasting Corporation. He has been a Sports Editor for Politics Herald newspaper.

Obase- Wotta Kammonke

Winners emerge in maiden Abacus Smartkids challenge

L

EADING schools in Lagos State were recently engaged in testing their speed in solving maths challenges at an interschool competition. At the end of the competition, winners emerged in different categories, all showing dexterity in the use of Abacus, and how it has impacted their speed in solving maths challenges.

The competition, tagged Abacus Smartkids Challenge, was organised by Edusoft Associates, held in Princeton Schools, Lagos, had students from different Schools in Lagos. Abacus Smartkids Challenge, said Varrier Devesh, Director of Training, Edusoft Associates, is a platform that avails contestants and schools an opportunity to test the skills and speed of their pupils when given

maths challenges. “Beyond the use of Abacus as a tool to enhance the speed of thought is the confidence its use gives students, and when they are not with the Abacus tool, they already have been imbued with the training so much so that their speed of thought is greatly enhanced as the kids have clearly demonstrated.”

At the end of the competition, Second Grade had the following winners: Okereke David (Heyday School), Ayanfe Atoki (Grandmate schools) and the winner was Goodluck Arowojolu (Princeton schools). Third Grade had these winners: Abudu Opeoluwa, second runner-up and Onyeka Iwegbu, first runner up (both of Princeton Schools) and Onuorah Williams (Heyday Schools) emerged the winner.

as your world fallen David at various intervals of his apart? Do you feel caved life, including having him live in and out of control of your life? with us for a few years, but the Do you feel overwhelmed by end result was the same. He the circumstance of life? Do you once said to me, “Sis, I am not feel that life dealt you the mean, I am just stupid” wrong hand? Do you detest He knew that he made bad your upbringing and past choices but for some reason I experiences? Are you currently don’t fully understand, he reliving the pains and pangs continued to make them. I of an abusive childhood? Do think my brother’s and my life you feel that the environment are an interesting parallel. By is controlling your life? Are you God’s grace I took the narrow trapped in the nightmare of road, and my life now is filled shattered dreams and battered with God’s reward. I am happy, hope? Do you feel that there is content, blessed and I have the more to life than you are privilege of helping people currently experiencing? Do you come to know the love and feel that life is working against forgiveness of God and His you rather than for you? reward in their own life. My Can two siblings raised by the brother took the wide road that same parents in an abusive led to destruction, and he is home but yet one is positively dead at age fifty-seven without impacting millions of lives having experienced God’s around the world and the other reward fully. I think I can truly died as a homeless wanderer, say he wasted his life and how true could it be? Let’s nobody could get him to stop. unravel the story and the key He had a few good years while to change. he lived with us, but as soon At age 13, the little girl began as he got out on his own, he the torturing experience of went back to bad choices and being sexually abused by her bad results.” Joyce Meyer is father and this abuse continued positively impacting millions of consistently until she was age lives through her best-selling 18. Her mother knew about the books, teachings and she is abuse but did nothing. Her literally feeding the poor, childhood was housing the stolen and she home-less and had to live with it. clothing the My brother And her younger naked and doing brother (nine much more was in a years apart) was through her homeless born and he too ministry while her was not exempted brother’s life was shelter from the cruelty a contrast. Here’s because he and anger that the catch, It is not ravished the the condition of refused to household and he our lives that walk the started drinking shapes our and doing drugs narrow road destiny. It is the at a very early decisions we that leads the age. Both siblings make that way of life had acquired determine the negative habits ultimate outcome and attitudes due of our lives. Our to the pressure of upbringing, their upbringing which implies environment and past that their negative upbringing experiences may influence us and environment had but does not determine our influenced their lives. destiny. Joyce Meyer decided However, as both grew up into on the kind of person she was adulthood their lives took on a committed to becoming; she different direction. In her raised her standard and made words, “I am sure someone is the choice to live according to thinking right now, Why is the highest standard of Joyce in ministry helping behavior. She broke the power people all over the world, and of her history by creating her her own brother was living in reality through her belief a homeless shelter?” My system. And she changed the brother was in a homeless direction of her life by her shelter because he refused to consistent actions. The key to walk the narrow road that leads change unfolds in the next the way of life. We helped edition.

Vanguard, THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2015 — 31

Using public health education to fight Ebola: Roehampton online student example

By Emeka Aginam

T

HE outbreak of Ebola in parts of West Africa saw health officials, hospitals and other industry stakeholders reassessing their levels of preparedness for dealing with public health emergencies.

Widespread shortages of doctors, nurses and volunteers possessing requisite knowledge and skills for containing the epidemic was recorded in affected areas, resulting in the spread of the deadly disease from Guinea to Sierra Leone, Liberia, Senegal, Nigeria and outside the shores of Africa.

Against this backdrop, it has become imperative to be able to respond swiftly to stopping the spread of the disease to new localities. In order to achieve this, there is an urgent need for citizens to be empowered to respond to Ebola, alongside other infectious and deadly diseases, and also to properly deal with other chronic public health issues.

Important factor This need for empowerment was an important factor for Daniel Tom-Aba. Currently occupying the role of Senior Data Manager and Team Lead for the Polio and Ebola Emergency Operations Center with the African Field Epidemiology Network (AFENET) in Abuja, Tom-Aba coordinates all data management activities as well as builds software solutions geared at solving public health challenges.

He sought a higher educational degree that would enable him deploy his technological skills in the field of public health more efficiently. To this end, he enrolled for the University of Roehampton, London Online’s Master of Public Health (MPH) programme. Launched in

response to the growing need for public health professionals around the world, the Roehampton Online Master of Public Health (MPH) programme features an interdisciplinary approach that enables students to learn from one another and collaborate across geographical regions and disciplines to address public health challenges.

For Tom-Aba, enrolment in the institution’s public health programme was key to bringing his passion for using technology to solve public health problems to life. “As an IT professional working in the public health sector, I wanted to obtain additional knowledge and professional certification to enable me achieve my career goals. Roehampton Online’s MPH programme has provided me with a deeper and practical understanding of public health” he said. As an online student, Tom-Aba is able to apply what he learns immediately into his professional work. Tom-Aba’s most recent work involves the coordination of activities in the use of technology and social media to enlighten and computerise end-to-end processes for AFENET’s Ebola Outbreak Response Team, contributing significantly to the containment of the virus in Nigeria.

“I was able to provide some support for the containment of the Ebola virus in Nigeria. For me, this is a major accomplishment. My learning from the public health programme has helped me to view the subject of health within a broader spectrum, especially as it relates to socio-ecological factors at intrapersonal, interpersonal, institutional and community levels. If an individual does not desire to live a healthy lifestyle, it affects the family unit, the society and the

community at large,” he said.

Formerly believed to be a specialised field staffed only by medical personnel, more individuals from other sectors of the economy have begun to gain a deeper understanding of the multi-disciplinary nature of public health, the need for collaboration and the role that a wide range of professionals can play in developing an advanced public health system that truly works.

Roehampton Online’s MPH programme was designed to address a contemporary public health field, one that includes representation of many disciplines and providing them with the skills to positive impact the health of their communities.

Public health issues According to Tom-Aba, the online MPH programme will significantly improve an individual’s ability to evaluate important public health issues and deal with public health challenges such as the Ebola crisis in a timely and appropriate fashion. “I always wanted to be a medical doctor but I feared blood and anything that had to do with hospitals."

However, I found out that I could still achieve my career goals by combining my skills as an IT professional and public health professional. What is important to me is saving lives and using technology that is available to do so,” he concluded.

For those interested in the field of public health, Roehampton Online also launched an interactive simulation that encourages participants to use their skills, logic and deductive reasoning to help save thousands of lives in the aftermath of a fictitious massive earthquake in the virtual country of Manresa.

*From left: Felix Opata, Director of Ferscoat Schools; sports icon, Falilat Ogunkoya, Isaac Akpata and other guests during the school's sports meet.

Olashore boosts teachers' knowledge through specialist training

By Dayo Adesulu

I

N its continuous efforts to blaze the trail in the education sector in Nigeria, Olashore International School has started a special training programme for carefully selected teachers across the country. The programme , tagged, The Teacher Training Programme (TTP), which kicked off last Saturday in Iloko Ilesha is meant to infuse special training skills on teachers who are carefully selected across the country as well as teachers from partner schools.

Olashore International plans to run the programme termly in major locations in Nigeria (Lagos, Abuja, Port-Harcourt and Warri) including the host community of OIS, Iloko-Ijesa, where the pilot edition will be held.

Among other objectives, the Olashore TTP programme aims to foster a healthy and mutual relationship between Olashore and participating schools; provide an outlet for participating teachers to share personal teaching experiences and improve their skills; create a networking platform for teachers and as well serve as a meeting point for public and private school

teachers The OIS TTP is a social resresponsibility initiative geared at creating a forum where teachers in public and private schools can engage in cross fertilization of ideas on self development and greater classroom effectiveness.

The forum which is facilitated

by Bradford College trained Master teachers from Olashore International School, will allow discussion that focuses on areas that range from providing resource materials, participant interaction, teaching methods to strategies on planning.

Olashore International School, in its quest at becoming the centre for teacher training in Nigeria, continues to redefine learning and teaching methods in schools. One way this is being achieved is the OIS Teacher Training Program.

The program is a 2-session training on improving the pedagogical skills of participants and reinforcing excellent teaching practices in the classrooms. Participants are drawn from partner primary schools and public primary schools in rural areas where opportunities for such training may be unreachable.

32—Vanguard, THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2015

Beninois police lauds FG on FFrench rench village

T

HE Head of the Seme border Command of the Beninois Police, Waidi Akodjenou, has commended the Federal Government for establishing the Nigeria French Language Village, to foster the teaching and learning of French in Nigeria.

Akodjenou expressed this view when the Director/ CEO of the NFLV, Prof.

Raufu Adebisi, paid him a familiarization visit at his Seme-Krake office. During the interaction, the Police chief reiterated that Nigeria was a very strong political, economic and social pull not only to countries in the sub-region but to Africa as a whole. In view of this, the Federal Government’s decision to promote the learning of French as a foreign language by establishing the NFLV was highly commendable.

According to him, the use of a common language is a catalyst for reciprocal interaction in business, education, socio-cultural and security intelligence sharing in the sub-region,

C M Y K

noting that the bilingual orientation of Nigeria would open the country to a new era of accelerated industrial and technological development and also allow her expand her circle of trading partners.

The officer who was posted to Seme border in 2013, maintained that there was harmonious working relationship between the Nigerian and Beninois security agents at the border. This, he said, had helped to minimize the crime rate in the area. He added that security at the border was a big challenge, when it comes to free movement of goods and persons in accordance with the ECOWAS protocol. He said, while it was their duty to ensure that law abiding citizens of the two countries have free movement across the borders in pursuit of their legitimate affairs, it was difficult to distinguish persons with criminal intents also going in and out of both countries.

He commended participants and students of the Village who cross the

border for the week-end excursions and language contacts in Benin for their orderly conduct, stressing that as leaders of tomorrow, the youths needed to be encouraged to become bilingual and to work towards a truly united Africa. He said his dream was to see a stronger and more united ECOWAS and Africa in general.

The Police chief who spoke both English and French thanked Prof. Raufu Adebisi, and his team for finding time to visit his office and promised to build on the existing cordial relationship between the Village and Officers and men of his command. In his response, Prof. Adebisi thanked Mr. Akodjenou for the warm reception accorded him and his team.

He appreciated him for identifying with the Village and particularly for finding time to visit the Village and interact with the students at their Friday French talkshow – “Causerie du Vendredi” whenever he was invited to do so.

Vanguard, THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2015—33

C M Y K

34—VANGUARD, THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2015

Lawyers should not delay election tribunals with interlocutory injunctions MR. Taiwo O. Taiwo, is the second vice president of the Nigerian Bar Association NBA. He is also the former Chairman Lagos branch of NBA.He attended University of Ife where he read History and politics for his first degree before proceeding to the University of Ibadan where he studied law, he was called to the Bar in 1986 and has been in practice since then. In this interview, he spoke on Election Tribunals, on the Supreme Court, Constitutional Courts, Appointment of Judges and other related issues. Excerpts

By Onozure Dania

B

Y next week Saturday, elections would have been over. As a legal practitioner, what are your expectations from the Election Petition Tribunals?

I expect that the Election Tribunals will be up to their oath of office in accordance to Honourable Justice Mahmoud Mohammed’s address during their swearing in, sometime in January on the does and don’ts and these are men of proven integrity.

Surely we will get the best from them without rancour. And my only advice is that political gladiators should leave them alone to do their job and whatever judgement they deliver, should be accepted in good faith and anyone who is not satisfy can also appeal there is a forum for that up to the Supreme Court.

On the time stipulated for hearing of petition, do you think the period of 180 days is enough considering interlocutory orders that may come up?

The point is that we should learn to manage our time.

Lawyers should also learn to do their job thoroughly so that there will be no room for this interlocutory injunctions.

Because most Lawyers use this to delay hearing of substantive matters.

Election matters are to be handled specially and timely, so that you don’t have someone in a position he or she ought not to be for two, three years before he is removed and another comes in to start afresh.

So I believe the interlocutory period has been taken care of.

And the law says everything should be taken care of within this period of 180 days, anything short of this, the case should be thrown out.

Do you agree that the Supreme Court is C M Y K

overburdened that it cannot take appeals that are not less than eight years?

There is no Court in Nigeria that is not overburdened. From the High Court, except State that are viable legally like Lagos, Port Harcourt, Jos, Abuja and all the Courts of record are overburdened. But I must say that the workload in the Supreme Court is enormous, of course I believe with time when people are discouraged from filing frivolous application and interlocutory appeal I think the workload of my Lords at the Supreme will be reduced.

In Nigeria, we are very combatant, even matters that are supposed to be settle under the roof, in the conference table we take them to Court.

Mr. Taiwo...Election matters are to be handled specially and timely Federal High Judgment nullifying movement restriction during monthly environmental sanitation in Lagos state?

Well as I use to tell people, I don’t criticize judgement of Judges. Firstly, I am not a counsel to either of the party neither do I canvass for argument. I think anybody that

Issues of human rights

Arbitration centres Today we have arbitration centres; ADR is there, I think it is better for people to explore other means of settling disputes because not all cases should be taken to Court. Can you imagine people taking the matters of Landlord and Tenant to the Supreme Court from the Magistrate up to the Supreme Court for 13 years? I think we need to overhaul the administration of Justice in Nigeria.

Do we need a Constitutional Court to deal with certain matters?

I believe that we need a specialized Court to deal with constitutional matters so that other courts can face other matters. For instance in Egypt and South Africa they have constitutional court so I think the time is ripe for Nigeria to establish a purely specialized court like we have the National Industrial Court whereas it has taken the yoke of labour related matters and issues of employment from the Court.

What is your opinion on the

is aggrieved should go to the appeal Court to challenge the decision of the Court. For me, I cannot query the decision of the Judges; it is only the appeal Court that can do things like that.

I think that is how the Judge sees it from the constitution and if Lagos state is not satisfy with the judgement, it should appeal against the decision.

Will you say there are too many lawyers in the country?

Not at all, it is because we are still developing as a country, there are many situations that need to be handled by lawyers.

Lawyers should also learn to do their job thoroughly so that there will be no room for this interlocutory injunctions.

Because most Lawyers use this to delay hearing of substantive matters

For instance the issue of prosecution by the police should be handled by the lawyers and even in every police station, there should be a lawyer who will advice the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) and all other policemen even the one manning the station on issues of human right, abuses and others.

What is your take on remuneration of young Lawyers, do you think that they are not well paid.

Thank God we have a very vibrant president and if you are current with issues in national NBA, since the inception of the

current president, you will agreed with me that it will be taken care of soon, even in the last NEC meeting which I am a member as the second Vice Chairman, the matter of remuneration for young lawyers came up and a decision was reached, but you know things like this are not automatic, though we are appealing to our members to comply in time, because we know most remuneration of lawyers are outrageous, it is not enticing, that is why most lawyers find their ways into other areas from the profession where they feel they can make more money. When I was Chairman of NBA, Lagos branch we did a lot for Young Lawyers in terms of incentives, and other assistance to make them appreciate the legal profession.

What has been the reaction of the NBA on issues that has to do with the welfare of the people?

I think if you follow the activities of the present National president of NBA, Augustine Alegeh from inception, you will agree with me that NBA has been on top of issues affecting the people. The position of NBA on any issue is not influence by any party and NBA is always

Continues on page 35

SAN calls for judicial autonomy to reduce corruption — Pg 36

Beyond failure of card reader —Pg 37

VANGUARD, THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2015 — 35

Firm sues bank over alleged bad debt

By Abdulwahab Abdulah

O

MAIS Investment Nigeria Limited, a building and civil engineering contractor, has dragged Ecobank Nigeria Limited before a Federal High Court, sitting in Lagos for allegedly listing its name as having bad credit and making unfair report about its accounts to the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

Joined in a writ of summons filed by its lawyer, Ehizogie Esezobor, was the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

In the suit, Omais was asking the court for an order directing the first defendant to pay it a sum of N2billion as damages for negligent mis-statements.

Other reliefs sought by the plaintiff include, “an order of

restorative injunction directing the first and second defendants to remove the plaintiff ’s company name from the CBN’s Credit Risk Management System (CRMS) database as a customer having a ‘non-performing loan’; a declaration that the first defendant’s listing of the plaintiff ’s accounts with the CBN’s CRMS database as a non-performing loan amount to negligent mis-statements”.

The plaintiff, in a 21 point statement of claim deposed to in support of the writ of summon, averred that it used to operate two accounts with the defunct Oceanic Bank International Bank Plc and that following 100 per cent acquisition of Oceanic Bank by the first defendant in 2011, it became its customer adding

that being its bankers, the first defendant owed it a fiduciary duty of care.

The plaintiff averred that it operated a corporate account and a Pearl account with the first defendant and that as at October 15, 2009, it had N637,958.69 standing credit in its Pearl account and N301,777.46 in its corporate account as at October 30, 2009 as at the time it stopped transacting and doing business on these accounts with the first defendants.

It stated that between October, 2009 and October, 2014, it has had cause to obtain and has obtained several facilities from various commercial banks to the tune of N5billion and has always repaid this loan as at when due adding that its annual turn

Lawyers should not delay election tribunals with interlocutory injunctions Continued from page 34 on the side of the people. We have a lot of probono services, the NBA is a mouthpiece of the people and we have been supporting people oriented issues. For instance, we sensitized people on the need to collect the Permanent Voters Card (PVC), as well as how and the need to vote. We went on Television, held seminars and conferences.

Even now there is an election monitoring group within the NBA saddled with the responsibility of making necessary data’s and information available to the NBA which will be forwarded to the national president. I think it will be too wrong for anybody to say that NBA has loss its voice on issues of national interest. Except they want it to toe a line they would not want to.

Do you have reservations on the mode of appointing judges?

EDITORIAL TEAM Innocent Anaba ( Head) Wahab Abdulah Ikechukwu Nnochiri Dayo Benson (Supervising Editor) 08056180119 dayobenson@yahoo.com C M Y K

Mr. Taiwo

On appointment of judges, NBA has always said they should be carried along,

because we know ourselves and it is good to appoint somebody who is practicing because if you have not been going to court what is your business on the bench? Right now we have put forward a proposal that the NBA must be part of appointment of judges.

What is your line of duty as a Vice President of NBA? As the second vice President, I am in charge of a particular section of the country that is the Northern zone. I have been to most part of this zone and in my capacity; the President could delegate responsibility of duty to me. I can also represent the president in any function and we report back to him. We all have a schedule of duty.

over was not less than one billion Naira.

The plaintiff averred that it came to the company as a rude shock and surprise when in an attempt to obtain a loan from Diamond Bank Plc in January, 2015 and it was revealed that the first defendant had listed the plaintiff as having bad credit at the CRMS of the second defendant to the tune of N6 million in spite that it has not been informed at any time, since 2009 when it stopped transactions with the first defendant, by a letter of demand, notification, by way of a statement of account or by any other medium whatsoever that it was indebted to the first defendant in any sum.

It claimed to have written two letters to the first defendant dated January 20 and February 24, 2015 respectively, demanding for a removal/ retraction of the report but that the first defendant, in spite of acknowledging the letters, did not respond until March 5, 2015.

It claimed that the first defendant, in its reply “unequivocally and expressly

Other reliefs sought by the plaintiff include, “an order of restorative injunction directing the defendants to remove the plaintiff’s company name from the CBN’s Credit Risk Management System (CRMS) database

admitted having made erroneous deductions in plaintiff’s accounts and despite these admissions refused to remove the plaintiffs name from the CBN’s CRMS database as having a bad credit.”

Omais claimed that since 2011 he had involved in a suit number ID/1432/2011 against the defunct Oceanic Bank at the Lagos state high and had appeared at the Lagos state multi door courthouse severally with the aim of resolving all issues of indebtedness between parties but that the first defendant did not in any manner raised the supposedly debt.

The plaintiff averred that the acts of the first defendant by reporting that it had bad credit to CRMS have been done intentionally, unjustly and in bad faith as it claimed that the defendant did not in any manner whatsoever disclosed this debt despite having ample opportunity to do so.

Particulars of claim In its particulars of claim, the plaintiff stated that the first defendant breached the fiduciary duty of care owed it by virtue of CBN’s Prudential Guidelines for Licensed Banks and that representations made by listing its accounts as nonperforming loan in the CRMS database were false, untrue, inaccurate and misleading.

It claimed that it has become practically impossible for the plaintiff to obtain facilities from any other financial institutions in the country to carry on its businesses and consequent upon which it has grounded to a halt.

The plaintiff claimed to have suffered colossal losses and damages, seriously injured in its businesses as a result of its being listed in the database insisting that the representation was done maliciously, without just cause or excuse and was allegedly calculated by the first defendant to cause pecuniary damage to its business.

The plaintiff urged the court to grant all the reliefs sought in its statement of claim.

No date has been fixed for the hearing of the suit.

36 — VANGUARD, THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2015

The 4th annual Anambra CJ’s Dinner The 4th Annual Chief Judge’s Dinner and maiden Awards Night organised by the Anambra State Judiciary in Awka.

Court adjourns fundamental enforcement suit against club

L

By Onozure Dania

AGOS— A Lagos High Court, sitting at Igbosere has adjourned a fundamental right enforcement suit filed by an ex-Entertainment Chairman of Ikoyi Club 1938, Mr. Gbenga Gbadesire, against the Registered Trustees of the club, till April 29, for further hearing.

Gbadesire had dragged the trustees of the club to court, claiming N100m for damages, over alleged unwarranted or unprocedural expulsion from the club.

During the proceedings, the matter could, not go on following the expression of discomfort by the judge, Justice K.O. Dawodu, over a letter directly addressed to the court by the claimant.

Gbadesire, in the letter dated March 19, 2015, had sought the permission of the judge to allow media coverage of the proceeding.

However, when the matter was called, the judge asked the claimant’s counsel, Olubusola Ashiru, from the chambers of Fred Agbaje, if he was aware of the letter before him and what purpose it was meant to serve.

The counsel, who said he was appearing in the matter for the first time, told the court that the letter was not written on the advice of or with the knowledge of his chambers.

The defence counsel, B.A. Onuoha, equally expressed surprise at the letter.

The judge, who was not comfortable with the proceeding, said the matter would be adjourned.

Onuoha, who told the court that he came prepared to argue his case, asked the court to award a cost of N50, 000, against the claimant for his action for stalling the proceeding.

The

This allegation and his subsequent summon by the subcommittee, eventually led to his suspension from the club for a period of one year

claimant’s counsel, however, pleaded with the court not to award such a cost.

The judge, while adjourning the matter, said he would not award any cost against the claimant but ordered that he 9Gbadesire) should appear before the court on the next adjourned date to explain why he had to write such a letter.

Gbadesire, who served as the Entertainment Chairman of Ikoyi Club 1938 between February 2006 and February 2008, was contending that his expulsion from the club, via a letter dated October 2, 2008, was unprocedural and a breach of Rule 9 of the Ikoyi Club 1938 Rules 2007.

In a 15-paragraph affidavit deposed to by him, the claimant said he was made to face a disciplinary sub-committee of the club on August 14, 2008, on account of some allegations levelled against him by one Kole Jagun, alleging that he(Gbadesire) acted contrary to Rule 38 (c) and (d) of the club’s rules.

From left: Justice Iguh, Justice Umeadi and Chief Ladi Williams, SAN.

From left: Justice David Onyefulu, Justice D.C. Maduechesi, Justice S. Ifekandu, Justice Joe Iguh and Justice R.O. Olukwo.

Subsequent summon This allegation and his subsequent summon by the sub-committee, eventually led to his suspension from the club for a period of one year via a letter dated August 27, 2008.

The claimant, further, stated that he wrote a letter to the registered trustees of the club challenging his suspension on the grounds of bias and miscarriage of justice.

He also, stated that he was later informed through a letter dated October 2, 2008, that following a meeting of the registered trustees of the club on September 23, 2008, it was resolved that his membership should be terminated.

The claimant contended that the decision to expel him from the club was a violation of his fundamental human right to fair hearing and principle of natural justice as enshrined in Section 36 of the 1999 Constitution As (Amended) He also urged the court to declare that his expulsion was a malicious and flagrant abuse of his right to the freedom of association as protected by Section 40 of the Constitution.

The defendant, however, urged the court to decline jurisdiction over the matter and dismiss Gbadesire’s claims, for failing to explore or exhaust the club’s internal dispute resolution mechanism as provided in section 18 (1) (c) of the club’s rules before heading to the court.

From left: Gerald Ezeuko, SAN, Justice Emmanuel, Justice Agim JCA, Arthur Obi Okafor, SAN and Dr. Onyechi Ikpeazu, SAN.

From left: Chairman NBA Akwa Branch, Uba Anene, Sir Livi Ugwu, Chairman NBA, Aniocha Branch, Chris Adimora, R.O. Nzekwe and Chairman NBA Umuahia Branch, Amara Onubogu.

SAN calls for judicial autonomy to reduce corruption

C

HIEF Ladi William, SAN, has called for the autonomy of the Judiciary from other arms of government as this will reduce corruption, promote efficiency, hard work at the Bar and Bench which will ultimately lead to the enhancement of the legal profession.

Speaking on “Enhancing the legal profession, the role of the Bench and Bar” at the 4th Annual Chief Judge’s Dinner and maiden Awards Night organized by the Anambra State Judiciary, Williams highlighted the urgent need to cure judicial corruption and inefficiency to enhance the legal profession.

In his address, the host of the programme, the Chief Judge of Anambra State, Justice Peter Umeadi, thanked everybody present at the occasion for finding time to grace the event which was not only great and fantastic in planning and C M Y K

organization but was also rich in attendance in presentations.

Justice Umeadi, said: “ Having arrived at the 4th Annual CJ’s dinner, I think that the aim would be to continue to lay building blocks on the agreed mould which this yearly dinner would take, it is essentially a dinner for the Judiciary of Anambra State where we have the pleasure to invite our guests from the Executive and Legislative arms of government of Anambra State.

“It is hoped that as each edition come, the dinner will serve as a platform for the three arms of government in Anambra State to talk to each other without rancor at once under one roof. We hope too that the presence of fun and festive atmosphere would elicit candour to enable the three arms of government to discover ways in which they could better relate for the

smooth the running of the machinery of government in the State for the utmost benefit of its people.

Utmost benefit He said: “The planning committee, in this 4th Annual CJ’s dinner added for the first time an award night. The innovation was approved and guideline for all times is that such an ward would be available to persons who have in one way or another been of service to the Judiciary of Anambra State in particular and Nigeria third arm of the Government of Anambra State, that Government comprise of the Executive, the Legislature and the Judiciary.

“Much as the Judiciary is a component part of that Government, it occupies a peculiar position where it is expected to act

as an arbiter between the Executive and Legislative arms and even in cases and issues which are between either the Executive or Legislature against the Judiciary, such as the recent issue of financial autonomy for the Judiciary.

“It for this sake that the Judiciary is to be excused when it seeks to distance itself in other to better adjudicate on issues without fear or favour, affection or ill will.

It is, therefore, for proven services to the Judiciary of Anambra State that the maiden award of the Chief Judge of Anambra State would be bestowed on the following eminent and distinguished persons as follows: The Governor of Anambra State, Chief Willie Obiano in recognition of his support, phenomenal and unprecedented development of infrastructure in the Judiciary of Anambra State, Governor Theodore Orji of Abia State, in recognition of his nobility in transcending frontiers in appointments in the Judiciary of Abia State. ”

VANGUARD, THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2015 — 37

monumental failure of the Card Readers.

Other fundamental minuses in the polls such as late arrival of the INEC and voting materials, late voter accreditations and late voting are all derived from the failure of the Card Readers. For instance, in most parts of Anambra State including Ogbaru, Onitsha North, Onitsha South, Idemmili North, Idemmili South and Aguata LGAs, the lateness was generally attributed to efforts

by INEC staff to master and fix the Card Readers before going to the polling units. There is also ethno-religious connotation introduced into the voting exercise in the Southeast by some perceived ethno-religious zealots in uniform. For instance, in Ogbaru LGA, the INEC staff reported that they were held for hours at the instance of the DPO in-charge of Atani Police State, one Supol Ibrahim; who they said blocked their way from the LGA headquarters and claimed that he was acting based on the order from above as it concerns malfunctioning of Card Readers.

Card reader failing President Goodluck Jonathan during accreditation on election day.

Beyond failure of card reader

By Emeka Umeagbalasi

T

HE three fundamental problems bedeviling the policies and actions of the Nigerian pubic office holders including academics in contemporary times are pride, inferiority complex and shamelessness on the part of their formulators and executors. These have gravely crept into the headship of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, under Prof Attahiru Jega.

They also exhibit the antics of being more catholic than the pope.

The referenced public officers are also in the habit of embracing anything new without caution, option B or consequential studies.

The foregoing appears to be the case with INEC’s headship under Prof Jega as it concerns the monumental failure of the Electronic Voting Card Readers during the presidential and National legislative elections in Nigeria.

Legislative elections If it is a social clime where public office holders are honourable, INEC Chairman having offered guided apologies to Nigerians and keen watchers of the country’s electoral events; would have resigned honourably.

By keeping the country ’s President and Commander-inChief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria standing for over 35

minutes to be electronically accredited to vote, which eventually failed woefully; the President could have slumped if he is psychologically and physically unhealthy. By INEC’s making and indecency, the President of Nigeria was tortured for over half an hour.

By inferiority complex and pride, the INEC Chairman toed the line of incorrigibility as a professor of political science and refused to listen and consider numerous written and oral appeals by Nigerians as it concerns the dangers and consequences of wholesale application of Card Reader technology into Nigeria’s electoral industry and midwifery without caution and availability of manual alternatives such as TVCs factored into the Voters’ Register in the event of its failure or compromise.

Instead of listening to expert individual and group Nigerians and those that proffered several solutions to the referenced; he issued a statement threatening them with civil remedial lawsuit accusing them of running campaigns of calumny against him and his Commission.

Today, the referenced Samaritan citizens including our leadership have extensively been vindicated. It boils down to a saying that goes: when a professor loses a socially integrated direction, he or she becomes a professor of primordialist and clannish thoughts. The wisdom of the Eze-

Ulu, Chief Priest of Ulu Deity and his only son-Oduche in the famous Novel of Prof Chukwuemeka Ike called the Bottled Leopard remains our fundamental reference point as it concerns the foregoing.

The referenced Chief Priest was feared, adored and respected among his people as it concerns midwifery of his clan’s deity. But on hearing the arrival of the white man’s religion, he took the wisest decision by not packing up his deity’s midwifery to follow the white man’s religion. Instead, he sent out his only son-Oduche to learn the way of the white man’s religion, while he stays put with his deity to avoid losing all if the

new religion fails. This should have been Prof Jega and his INEC’s wisdom.

Further, the INEC Chairman’s attempts on the Nigerian Television Authority to downplay the monumental failure associated with the Card Readers are most regrettable and condemnable. For instance, it is totally fallacious for him to have said that Card Readers only failed in 350 polling units out of the 119, 793 country-wide polling units. In Anambra State alone, Card Readers never succeeded in up to 200 polling units and the State alone has 4,608 polling units. In most of the polling units in the Southeast, Card Readers failed woefully resulting in reversion to manual accreditations.

Manual accreditations

In all, the major challenge that trailed the referenced polls is the monumental failure of the card readers

There are a total of 15, 549 polling units allocated to the Southeast by INEC. In Southsouth zone, many, if not most of the polling units in the zone hosted woefully failed Card Readers resulting to the use of manual accreditations. There are 17, 760 polling units in the Southsouth including President Jonathan’s Bayelsa State, which has 1, 804. There are also other widespread complaints of Card Reader failure in other parts of the country including the FCT, Southwest, Northeast, Northcentral and Northwest zones. In all, the major challenge that trailed the referenced polls is the

Malfunctioning of card readers In the 33 area of Nsugbe in Oyi LGA of Anambra State, the DPO of the 33 Police Station, one Suplo A.A. Adamu allegedly blocked the road for hours, impounded all coming vehicles and seized their owners’ PVCs, citing order from above. It took fierce intervention of Justus Ijeoma of the Anambra CLO for the captives and their PVCs to be freed.

Another fundamental minus in the polls was alleged high incident of under-age voting in the Northwest and the Northeast including Taraba State. This issue was taken up with INEC by leading rights groups like Intersociety several times and in writing, yet the Commission went deaf and dumb over it. Also in the referenced polls, hundreds of thousands of under-age children (those not up to 18years and above) got accredited and voted.

There were cases whereby owing to the failure of Card Readers and attendant lateness in the arrival of INEC materials and voting, hundreds of thousands of voters got tired or frustrated and left voting units.

In other words, INEC further disenfranchised hundreds of thousands of registered voters particularly in the Southeast and the South-south zones in addition to 12.4 million registered voters earlier disenfranchised and denied voting rights. The referenced disenfranchised 12.4 million registered voters of pastoral and sedentary ethnic backgrounds by INEC by way of non issuance of PVCs remains the god-father of the referenced fundamental minuses trailing the referenced polls. This is a grave affront to the pluralistic and multi ethnic composition of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Umeagbalasi, a civil right activist wrote from Onitsha.

38— Vanguard, THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2015

iREP@5: Remodeling documentary filmmaking in digital age

By Prisca Sam-Duru

T

HE 2015 i-Represent International Documentary Film Festival which commenced on Thursday, March 19, ended on an encouraging note on Sunday with the traditional Art stampede held at the Kongi’s Harvest, Freedom Park, old Broad Street Prison, Lagos.

This year ’s edition which marked the 5th anniversary of the festival, explored the theme, Reinventing Documentary Filmmaking In A Digital Space.

The theme which though was conceived on the traditional iREP thematic framework of Africa in Self-conversation, was “premised on the reality that Digital media technology is expanding narrative possibilities and shaping audiences’ experiences of how realities are articulated.”

The festival is the brain child of the iRepresent Documentary Film Forum, an affiliate of the West African Documentary Film Forum (WDFF), and the Documentary Network Africa (DNA). It enjoyed the support of partners such as Goethe Institut, British Council, Ford Foundation, Africa Magic, Afrinolly and Freedom Park.

Digital broadcasting The festival attracted international guests from countries such as Germany, United States, United Kingdom, France, Cameroun, Gabon, South Africa and Kenya.

Dominating discussions at the festival were conversations on how Africa can utilise digital broadcasting to tell her stories.

Over 40 films which include; award-winning works such as Chameleon (by Ryan Mullins/ Canada); Love is All (by Kim Longinotto/UK); Poverty Inc (by Michael Matheson/US); Unforgiven (by Lucas Augustin/Rwanda-Germany); Katlehong (by Irene Loebell/ South Africa); Olu Amoda: A Metallic Journey (by Tam Fiofori and Joel Benson/Nigeria), etc, were screened.

In addition to screenings, the festival also included producers roundtable, training sessions, seminars, workshops, conferences and networking platforms.

Proud of the successes recorded at the festival, Executive Director, Irep film Festival Femi Odugbemi said, “We have

rekindled awareness of the power and possibilities of documentary to provoke debate, highlight issues, explicate human experiences and explore histories and cultures.”

MD of MultiChoice Nigeria, John Ugbe, in the festival’s first keynote stated that “The audience tells us what they want, it’s almost like the audience is developing the filmmaker now.

There is a lot of emphasis on how much easier it is to create content and distribute it now, but if you don’t have a good story the audience will just move on more quickly. Habits are changing, it used to be if you had a 13-part documentary people would watch it over 26

We have rekindled awareness of the power and possibilities of documentary to provoke debate, highlight issues, explicate human experiences and explore histories and culture

• From Left- Prof Coker, Makin Soyinka, Emeka Mba, Toyin Poju-Oyemade, Femi Odugbemi and Jahman Anikulapo Kuti cutting the 5th anniversary cake

weeks on TV. Now we have them binge watching over one weekend. And how does that affect the monetization of the content?”

During the discussion on Digital Documentary and Citizen Journalism: the Security Imperative, which took place on day two, Prof. Femi Shaka, Chair of the festival panel, declared that “The principal aim of Citizen Journalism is to democratise the process of documenting events-cum-history and not to compete with professional media people.” stressing that this makes it possible for people to tell their stories from their own point of view.” He however advocated that security agencies should as a matter of urgency, open up sections on the websites to enable citizens report crime directly.

Also, photographer and filmaker, Tam Fiofori advised

citizens to apply courtesy while trying to pass on information stressing the need for citizen journalist to be trained so as to be able to “identify what is important, what could pass for news and items that are downright frivolous.”

Citizen journalism Dr. Friday Nwankwo who observed that Citizen Journalism could otherwise be described as Guerrilla or Street Journalism, called for sensitivity and sensibility among citizen journalists. He however posited that Citizen Journalism especially when it has to do with video evidence, can help security operatives to carry out their duty.

The Art Stampede, an ‘arthouse parliamentary’ session, themed, Digital Broadcasting & Challenges of Artis-

tic Freedom which held in collaboration between iREP Film Forum and the leading culture activist organisation, the Committee for Relevant Art (CORA), rapped up events for this year.

It featured keynote by Prof Awam Amkpa of New York university, USA, and panelists; Victor Okhai, Ropo Ewenla, Toni Khan and Prof. Niyi Coker (Jnr) of the University of Missouri, USA. Deji Toye, the lawyer-dramatist-poet, moderated the session. Prof. Amkpa stated that while “Digital broadcasting has come to stay... Universities, polytechnics should begin to focus on tapping from scenarios built by Nollywood” adding that Nigeria is a fantastic ground for promotion and development of this platform.

Prof. Amkpa averred that while artistic freedom is non-negotiable, how Africa uses the digital platform to diversify, makes a whole lot of difference.

Senator Adokwe bags ANA pillar award Johnbosco Agbakwuru

A

SSOCIATION of Nige rian Authors, ANA, has named Senator Emmanuel Adokwe representing Nasarawa South Senatorial district as the pillar of ANA as a result of his contributions towards promoting reading culture in the country.

Presenting the award to Senator Adokwe, Nasarawa State chapter Chairman of ANA, Mr. Sumaila Umaisha said that the award was supposed to be presented to the Senator at the grand finale of the annual reading competition organized by the state chapter in the three senatorial districts in December last year but the absence of the senator caused the delay.

According to him, “The distinguished Senator has been assisting us. The grand finale took place on 28 December 2014. That was when we intended to present the award to the Senator but he was not able to attend.

“The Association of Nigerian Authors was established in 1981 with the aim of promoting reading culture and we do this in collaboration with institutions and also with individuals who are interested in the culture.”

Responding, Senator Adokwe who had turned down requests to honour him several times, thanked the leadership of ANA for the honour done him.

He said, “I don’t accept

awards but I consider this very important and because of the passion I attached to the association that encourages reading culture in the young population in the state considering the fact that the state is one of the educationally disadvantaged state, we will encourage any effort that will contribute to the growth of education and culture in our state.

“Reading is the main thing that can impact knowledge to

everybody. You have to read first to know the knowledge in the material you are reading.

Anybody that fails to read will remain ignorant.

“Reading is the fundamental way of improving communication skills in the young ones.

The leadership of ANA should not look at the profit they would make by writing books but be rest assured that you are contributing to the body knowledge and to humanity.”

Call for submission for 2015 Photography contest

O

YASAF Foundation in collaboration with UFUK Dialogue Foundation invites artists and photographers to submit images for a collaborative photography competition titled: “Colours of Harmony” which is expected to take place in April in Abuja after which some selected works shall be exhibited in a travelling exhibition for an ex-

tended period.

This competition is the second OYASAF collaborative effort at promoting Nigerian art with UFUK Foundation. The first collaboration between the two foundations was titled “Art For Peace: Paint African Values”. This second collaboration is a photo competition of different parts of Nigeria, depicting the togetherness and

cultural co-existence in our diversity. It will explore Nigerian culture, diversity and relationship of the different aspects of Nigeria’s cultural lives through the lenses of Nigerian photographers.

Participants are expected to enter a maximum of 4 images of their choice. All entries must be submitted online to: oyasaf2000@yahoo.com

Vanguard, THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2015 — 39

By Chris Onuoha

P

ERFORMING arts lovers in and around Lagos, were treated to another thrilling encounter recently when Hamlet, one of the oldest William Shakespear’s plays was performed in Lagos.

The play which came courtesy of the Globe to Globe production which was staged at the Agip Hall, Muson Centre, Lagos received a rapturous standing ovation from the crowd through the period it lasted.

The team of performers was made up of Nigeria’s Ladi Emeruwa and an impressive international cast and crew of 17, lived up to expectations exhibiting vigour and personae the true image of iconic Hamlet in a sold out Shakespeare’s Globe to Globe production.

Globe to globe production The show tagged simply ‘brilliant’ with an abridged performance at the St. Saviours School, Ikoyi, Emeruwa’s alma mater witnessed a converge of great personalities, who’s who in Nigeria theatre industry, literati and lovers of theatre started with a press conference held at “The Love Garden” of the MUSON Centre where local and international press keen to get a glimpse of Nigeria’s very own, Ladi Emeruwa who in the shared role of Hamlet, later thrilled fans alongside an impressive international cast and crew of seventeen.

Nigeria’s very own Nobel Laureate, Prof. Wole Soyinka, welcomed the international Globe Theatre and especially the country’s star Hamlet, saying in an email “l extend an unabashedly nepotistic welcome to “he that play the prince”- OUR OWN SON! - as we say in these part - on loan to your company until we have completed the restoration

•A scene from the Globe's Hamlet

Soyinka applauds Ladi Emeruwa, as Globe's Hamlet hits Nigeria of our own Globe Theatre if only we could find its location.”

The two hour performance brought out

The two hour performance brought out the best of William Shakespear's language command, the intrigues, suspense and human dexterity exhibited by the cast

the best of William Shakespeare’s language command, the intrigues, suspense and human dexterity exhibited by the cast as the audience were all rapt till the end of the show. The maverick Ladi performed his best as he showcased to his home audience, the coming of age and a make good crossover from law study to a flexible theatrical pursuit.

Fielding questions from the jour nalist, Ladi mentioned that Globe project is his first international job and it gave him the opportunity to visit every country of the world promoting and encouraging cultural exchange and awareness. “In the whole Shakespeare’s play,

we took it by beat, the major plots to key into the original Shakespeare’s two hour running.” he said.

After the performance, guests who thronged the arena in large number were not disappointed and expressed satisfaction having watched Ladi performed live in his home soil. A guest commented that Ladi was “a damn good fencer”; while another said “it was a great performance, all the characters around Hamlet responded accordingly, from hurt, confusion and intimidation to violence, suicide and self-preservation. This Hamlet was brilliant”.

Owoseni's The Career Leader points the way for youth

By Emmanuel Asuquo

O

NE of the most complex issue facing the youth is the dilemma of choosing a career and lifelong work.

Hence the need to guide them on this important issue. It is in response to this that a youth development consultant, Abraham Owoseni came up with a new book entitled Career Leader, A Guide to Purposeful Career and Influential Leadership. In the book, Abraham Owoseni attempts to drive home in its simplest form the complex discourse of career and leadership amongst the youth folk. The author seeks to dispel the wrong views held by the youth about career and leadership through the book; hence it is “a guide to purposeful career and influential leadership”. He also intends through the book, to offer a lasting insights that will enable the reader to break out from joblessness to discovering work, as well to serve as a foundation for a true and purposeful career.

Contrary to the perceived wrong definitions for career and work, Abraham posits that “a career is a long-term, lifelong work” (chapter1) and maintains that a career is not a job in the context it is being understood to be. He contends that a job is a piece of one’s work and that one’s career, which is his work

can be expressed either via a profession, a vocation/craft or in entrepreneurship. He also emphasized that none of these channels of career expression is inferior to the other. It is a cycle and everyone must discover his place to become leaders of influence, relevance and impact! According to him, “work here refers to activity, engagement, labour; a career is not a task of a day or a week; it is a long term and a life-long task”.

In addressing the issue of choosing a career path, Abraham advised that before young people settle for their

In the book, Abraham attempts to drive home in simplest form the complex discourse of career and leadership amongst the youth folk

lives’ career choices; they should pay close attention to their purpose, Gifts, talents and abilities; passion and interests and personality respectively.

The 86 page book with forward by Dayo Israel, published in 2014 by Bukasin Unique Touch under the genre of Educational/Inspirational consists of six chapters with a note from the author and an Epilogue.

a vision to raise a new breed of purposeful and holistic youths. He is a trained Architect with a keen interest in youth facility designs and development from the prestigious Covenant University where he obtained a first class degree and Masters in Architecture. He has been involved in youth work for a relative good time and doubles as the Coordinator of the Youth Development Academy.

Chosing a career path The author chapter by chapter dissects the various steps that youth will take in order to succeed. In chapter 1, he redefines career, introducing the reader to what career is. Choosing a career path followed in chapter two, while chapter three treats the place of refineries.

Chapters four to six takes the reader to what he termed Career Work Expressions, Redefining Leadership and the seven elements of leadership.

Written in a simple English and style with jaw-friendly vocabularies that suits the age and target audience the author had in mind.

Abraham Owoseni is a youth development advocate and an educator with

The Career Leader, Abraham Owoseni; Bukasin Unique Touch, Nigeria, 2014; PP. 86

40—Vanguard, THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2015

•President Goodluck Jonathan

cern among some was that Orubebe came to the venue of the collation with some security operatives.

However, quick assurance that Orubebe was on a solitary mission came with the disclosure that President Jonathan was the one who forced him to stop his protest through a phone call from the presidential villa.

Jonathan’s finest hour It is not how long but how well, President Goodluck Jonathan, Tuesday, turned deaf to the drumbeats of war from associates to congratulate the victor in last Saturday’s presidential election. His exit strategy could position him on the platform of statesmanship

By Emmanuel Aziken, Political Editor

W

ITH the trend of the results of the presidential election showing his challenger, Muhammadu Buhari in an unassailable lead, Jonathan at about 5.15 p.m. on Tuesday put forth a telephone call to Buhari to concede defeat.

It was an unprecedented act especially given the fact that never in the history of the country had such an act been done for a party in power in Nigeria to admit defeat in an electoral contest.

The action of Dr. Jonathan who flew the flag of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP was especially remarkable given the tension that had enveloped the country in the days leading to the election. Non indigenes in the north had relocated down south, while a number of nonindigenes living in the south also went north in apprehension of possible outbreak of violence arising from what many feared would be a violent resistance to the result of the election. The violence that followed the announcement of the 2011 election that was itself not as

competitive as the last presidential election cost hundreds of lives.

The action of Dr. Jonathan who flew the flag of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP was especially remarkable given the tension that had enveloped the country in the days leading to the election

That apprehension this time was against the background of the assertion by the PDP, which has ruled the country since the return to democratic rule 16 years ago that the party would rule for 60 years.

Besides that, were the insinuations that some associates of the president who are major beneficiaries of Jonathan’s continued stay in office would do everything including provoking a truncation of the democratic system to stop a handover. That insinuation was given a fillip by the action of a close associate of the president, Elder Godsday Orubebe while the collation was ongoing on Tuesday. The former minister of Niger Delta had stalled the process for about 20 minutes and accused the INEC chairman, Prof. Attahiru Jega of bias. What especially raised con-

Disciplinarian disposition Perceptions that some were determined to stop Buhari was perhaps attributable to his austere and disciplinarian disposition. Indeed, there were fears that Buhari could herd many elite into prison, a claim that was repeatedly insinuated

by Mrs. Patience Jonathan during the campaigns.

So it was not surprising that in the days leading to the election and as indications showed that Buhari could unseat Jonathan, insinuations about establishing an Interim National Government, ING as a way of staving off a government to be headed by Buhari were repeatedly voiced.

President Jonathan was, however, quick to show his Continues on page 42

Vanguard, THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2015—41

2011 and 2015:

•Akpabio

•Patience

•Fayose

•Obi

DAY AFTER PRESIDENTIAL POLL:

The big-time losers

By Charles Kumolu

T

HE outcome of Nigeria’s presidential election obviously symbolises two things: a set back and a beginning for the political future of many mainstream politicians in the country.

It is such that has significantly boosted and as well diminished the relevance of most actors across different divides.

Specifically, it comes as a curtain raiser for most chieftains of the All Progressives Congress, APC, who are poised to emerge as the leading players in the polity, while hitherto strongmen of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, are now relegated to the background of Nigerian politics.

The situation is also same for most supporters of the defeated ruling party across some critical sectors of the society like captains of industry, clergy and traditional rulers among others.

Those on the losing side include; Alhaji Adamu Muazu, Mrs. Patience Jonathan, Chief Edwin Clark, Chief Tony Anenih, Sen David Mark, Chief Godswill Akpabio, Chief Olabode George, Governor Ayo Fayose, Mr. Peter Obi, Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor, Alhaji Mujahid Asari Dokubo and Chief Gani Adams among others Mu'azu The PDP National Chairman is regarded as the game changer given the relative calm his emergence as the chairman of the PDP brought to the often rancorous party. Within the little period he has been in the saddle, he became so powerful with great appeal among party faithful.

With the amount of influence that is naturally attached to the office he occupies, Muazu is practically the most powerful man in the PDP after President Good-

luck Jonathan.

The former governor of Bauchi State was a prominent figure in the electioneering campaign that ended PDP’s 16-year rule.

However, he failed to deliver his state to the president, leading to the President’s defeat.

With his party’s defeat, his influence and political stardom appears to have come to an end.

And since the chairmanship of an opposition party in Nigeria lack glamour and powers, Mu'azu would no longer be in the spotlight.

Mrs. Jonathan With undisputed peculiar ways of carrying out her unconstitutional role as First Lady, Mrs. Jonathan, has so far been a major actor in her husband’s presidency. The combination of passion for her beliefs and flipflops, have perhaps seen her becoming the most controversial First Lady.

It was this unfamiliar passion that saw her bringing so much thrills and distractions to the PDP presidential campaign.

With her husband’s defeat, Mrs. Jonathan’s incontrovertible influence in the corridors of power and beyond, has abruptly ended.

Of note is her grip on the affairs of River State, which is also believed to have ended with PDP’s defeat since she would no longer have influence over the instruments of power.

For someone, whose image literally loomed larger than the President, Madam Jonathan comes across as the chief loser in the presidential poll.

Clark As President Jonathan’s leading supporter, Clark has been a source of moral and fatherly support to the out-going President.

The role the erstwhile Minister of Information played in the emergence and sustenance of Jonathan as President, is obviously remarkable.

With his unflinching backing at various times, it was natural for the elder statesman to become one of the authoritative figures of the Jonathan presidency.

There is no doubt that Muhammadu Buhari’s victory, signifies the sun set for Clark’s relevance in the mainstream of the country’s politics.

Oritsejafor The Warri based pastor is the leader of the Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, a body that has under his leadership, been widely criticised for allegedly being partisan. Though, the presidency of this Christian umbrella body, often attracts relevance to occupiers of the office, Oritsejafor had been variously accused of leaning towards the PDP. It was this situation that made

With her husband’s defeat, Mrs. Jonathan’s incontrovertible influence in the corridors of power and beyond, has abruptly ended

some analysts to describe CAN as the Christian wing of the PDP. The impression about the CAN president was made worse by the controversy over the alleged $9.3 million smuggled into South Africa in an aircraft allegedly owned by him.

As a friend of the President and outgoing administration, Papa Ayo as he is fondly called may not be among the regular visitors to the corridors of power in the next dispensation.

Akpabio Akwa Ibom State governor’s influence in the outgoing administration, is not quantifiable.

His leadership of the PDP Governors' Forum and being in charge of a state with so much oil wealth, made his ascendency as one of the strongest figures in the PDP possible.

Even though, the President won his state with 92.68 percent of the total votes cast, Akpabio is still on the losing side. In the next dispensation, he would be in the Senate as a member of the minority and opposition party-a situation that would deny him the punch and power he had wielded.

Obi The former governor of Anambra State also ranks as one of the major casualties of PDP’s defeat. Obi’s plight is more understood from the fact his dumping of All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA—a party that was built around him and late Chukwuemeka Ojukwu, was construed as selfish.

Given that he would have emerged as one of the leading voices if Jonathan had won, Obi is in the list of big-time losers.

Fayose For someone, who fiercely cam-

paigned for Jonathan’s re-election at the expense of societal values and decorum, PDP’s defeat is something that Ekiti State governor, Ayo Fayose could never have desired.

A Jonathan victory would have seen Fayose being the Akpabio of the next dispensation among PDP governors considering his experience. But as things are now, analysts consider Fayose as someone at a crossroad.

Asari-Dokubo When it was obvious that Buhari was coasting home to victory, most discourse had focused on what becomes of people like the former leader of defunct Niger Delta People’s Volunteer Force (NDPVF) who had threatened fire and brimstone if the President was rigged out.

Asari-Dokubo, whose utterances had often times pitched him against the sensibilities of some sections of the country, would no longer have his current seemingly above board image under Buhari.

Olabode George Already, the former Deputy National Chairman of the PDP, has described his party’s defeat as a personal loss.

So painful was the loss to him that he insisted on his pre-election position of going on exile if Buhari should win.

The implication of Buhari’s victory for the retired naval officer is that those he considered his enemies would now be calling the shots at the federal level.

This, he highlighted in an exclusive interview with Vanguard, noting thus: ‘’ “What will I be doing here? I can decide to go and live anywhere. Look at everyone surrounding him (Buhari).

“So, I am not joking about it, what will I be doing here? At 70, what will I be doing here? All we have been doing to restructure the country has been lost. We have been trying to ensure balance in the polity but all that has gone. What else will I be doing here?’’

42—Vanguard, THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2015

And the winners are...

By Dapo Akinrefon

T

HE Independent Nation al Electoral Commission, INEC, has declared the Presidential Candidate of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Major-General Muhammadu Buhari (retd) as the winner of the 2015 presidential election.

There is no doubt that the outcome of the polls has thrown up winners and losers.

Nigerians The first winners of the elections are Nigerians, who despite all odds were determined to ensure that their votes counted. In previous elections, the will of the people had been undermined by politicians but they were unperturbed in ensuring they throw up their leaders through the ballot box on March 28.

With the malfunctioning of the Smart Card Readers and late arrival of election materials for the March 28 presidential and

•Fayemi

Tinubu

•Amaechi

parliamentary polls, Nigerians patiently waited to cast their votes. Kudos must be given to Nigerians for their doggedness and peaceful conduct during the polls.

project Buhari before Nigerians and this culminated to victory at the polls.

Asiwaju Bola Tinubu The former governor of Lagos State, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu is another winner in the elections.

His consistency and support for the Buhari candidacy proved fruitful. He was able to spread his political tentacles and influence to

APC governors Governors of the APC duly contributed to Buhari’s victory at the polls. This is because they mobilised support for Buhari in their respective states which resulted to the emergence of the APC presidential candidate as president-elect.

Jonathan’s finest hour Continues on page 40 prodemocracy identity by ruling out such an option, going to the length of describing such as treasonable.

However, as the results of the election began to emerge and with indications that Buhari was taking an unassailable lead, the tension that had enveloped the land began to swell.

Workers who went to work at the Federal Secretariat in Abuja on Monday, the first working day after the election were forced to go home early as rumours of possible unrest swept through the complex. The rumours also spread through to Lagos asworkersintheLagosStateGovernmentsecretariat in Alausa also relocated home on the fear of possible violence. Besides the stampedes out of the government offices in Abuja and Lagos, the eerie emptiness of the roads in Lagos and Abuja were indicative of doom. The tension in the land was not helpedbytheditheringprocrastinationbytheelection management body in releasing the results of the election.

Dousing of tension

By Tuesday afternoon and with tension swelling, President Jonathan at about 5.15 p.m. put a call to Buhari to congratulate him and concede victory to him. By the time the president did that, results from Borno State were yet to be inputted into the tally of votes. The president’s action became public knowledge after Buhari himself told a delegation of eminent statesmen led by a former head of state, General Abdulsalami Abubakar of the president’s action.

That action alone immediately doused tension in theland.Itwaswhatsavedthepolityfromthepossible outbreakofviolenceonTuesdaynightespeciallygiven the dithering procrastination that shadowed the compilation of the final results. Indeed, many had suggested that had Dr. Jonathan not put the call the time he did and given the delay it took INEC to announce Buhari as winner, that many tensed supporters of the APC could have imagined a plot to scuttle the party’s victory.

In his private conversation with the Abubakar led groupofstatesmenthatincludedbusinessmogulAliko Dangote,JohnCardinalOnaiyekanandformermilitary second in command, Commodore Ebitu Ukiwe, the president explained his reasons.

He was to make the reasons public later in a national broadcastonstate-ownedNigerianTelevisionAuthority, NTA. He said: “I promised the country free and fair elections. I have kept my word. I have also expanded the space for Nigerians to participate in the democratic process. That is one legacy I will like to see endure.

“Although some people have expressed mixed feelings about the results announced by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), I urge those who may feel aggrieved to follow due process based on our constitution and our electoral laws, in seeking redress. “As I have always affirmed, nobody’s ambition is worth the blood of any Nigerian.

The unity, stability and progress of our dear country are more important than anything else.

“I congratulate all Nigerians for successfully going through the process of the March 28th General Elections with the commendable enthusiasm and commitment that was demonstrated nationwide.

“I also commend the Security Services for their role in ensuring that the elections were mostly peaceful and violence-free. To my colleagues in the PDP,I thank you for your support. Today, the PDP should be celebratingratherthanmourning.Wehaveestablished alegacyofdemocraticfreedom,transparency,economic growth and free and fair elections.

“For the past 16 years, we have steered the country away from ethnic and regional politics. We created a Pan-Nigerian political party and brought home to our peopletherealitiesofeconomicdevelopmentandsocial transformation.“Throughpatriotismanddiligence,we have built the biggest and most patriotic party in Nigerian history. We must stand together as a party and look to the future with renewed optimism.

“I thank all Nigerians once again for the great opportunity I was given to lead this country and assure you that I will continue to do my best at the helm of nationalaffairsuntiltheendofmytenure”.Dr.Jonathan has inevitably set a culture and course for other presidents that may lose elections. By his action, he has inevitably set a step forward towards the land of statesmen and Nigeria will be the better for it.

•Kwankwaso

•Atiku

Kayode Fayemi Former governor of Ekiti State, Dr Kayode Fayemi was consistent portraying the Buhari candidacy before the international community. Fayemi was able to use his international connection to sell the Buhari project before Nigerians in the diaspora.

Though he lost out during the June 21, governorship elections, Fayemi was drafted into the Buhari Campaign Organisation Amaechi Governor Amaechi was in the forefront of the Project Buhari.

Amaechi, had before now been in the eye of the storm especially from the outgoing First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan in Rivers state. He also contended with the PDP force led by Nyesom Wike.

The continued face-off between him and President Goodluck Jonathan left him with no other option than to seek solace in the APC. With Buhari’s emergence, Amaechi will not be left out in the scheme of things especially being the Director General of Muhammadu Buhari Campaign Organisation.

Obasanjo Former President Olusegun Obasanjo is another victor in the election. He was an influential personality to Buhari’s ascendancy to Aso Rock considering the cold war that existed between him and Jonathan.

This climaxed with the latter publicly shredding his PDP card and his eventual exit from the party. It is considered that Obasanjo’s exit from the party sent a strong signal to Nigerians that Jonathan was on his own.

Kwankwaso Governor Rabiu Kwakwano of Kano State was the runner-up in the APC presidential primary and his image which looms large in Kano State contributed to Buhari’s success at the polls. Kwakwanso was able to mobilise not only Kano State, which has one of the highest voting population in the country. He won his Senatorial seat.

Aregbesola Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, the governor of Osun State, has a perceived deep hatred for the PDP. In the 2011 presidential elections, Aregbesola refused to toe the path of others, who allowed the PDP a free hand in the state. For a state that receives one of the lowest amount as federal allocation, the coast is clear for a Federal government assistance.

Okorocha Owelle Rochas Okorocha is the governor of Imo State and the only APC governor in the South East.

Okorocha workde hard convincing his Igbo folks to support the Buhari presidency.

Okorocha’s support for Buhari would lead to a dawn of new things for both APC supporters and South easterners.

Atiku Former Vice President of Nigeria, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar is another northern figure who ensured the Buhari victory came into reality. Atiku was one of the party bigwigs who supported Buhari with financial assistance.

He was actively working behind the scene.

John Oyegun Chief John Odigie Oyegun, a former governor of Edo State is the national chairman of the APC. Interestingly, Oyegun’s era as the APC chairman led to the end of the PDP’s 16 year rule.

Perhaps, it would be apt to state that his tenure as chairman would usher in the birth of a new era for the party and Nigerians.

Re: Aisha: Brain and Beauty in the villa IT was erroneously inputted that Mrs. Aisha Buhari is from the family of Alhaji Muhammadu Buhari on page 55 of Vanguard of Wednesday, April I, 2015. The correct depiction is the family of Alhaji Muhammadu Ribadu, Nigeria’s first minister of defence.

Vanguard, THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2015—43

C M Y K

44—Vanguard, THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2015

Africa, China partner to expand health coverage

By Mustapha Sidiku Kaloko

domestic resources for health, and strategically use international aid as a complement to these efforts.

New and innovative partnerships, including those with other countries in the Global South, are rapidly becoming an important part of this landscape, particularly as traditional donor budgets come under pressure. South-South cooperation allows African countries to exchange experiences and expertise with other countries that have faced similar health challenges, and share similar health goals. A prime example of this is Africa's growing partnership with China.

O

NE year into the Ebola epidemic, the international community must take stock of the lessons learned and emerge stronger than before. The crisis in Liberia, Guinea and Sierra Leone, has shown us that without strong and resilient health systems, countries are left powerless in the face of disease epidemics.

The reality is that the countries most affected by Ebola are not uniquely vulnerable. According to a new report from Save the Children, 26 countries have worse access to healthcare than Sierra Leone- 16 of these are in sub-Saharan Africa.

The best way to prepare a country for health crises is to invest in the systems that protect against the more pervasive health challenges, such as diarrheal diseases, cancer and malaria.

Ensuring that Africans receive even the most basic health care requires the people, institutions and technologies that together help keep communities healthy.

Commitments to build strong health systems from African governments and organizations like the African Union have led to significant progress across the continent, including a dramatic reduction in malaria deaths, a decline in HIV/AIDS incidence and new efforts to get maternal health services to those in hard-to-reach areas.

Nevertheless, many countries continue to face dire health challenges and governments must continue to mobilize

• Chinyere (left) and one of her daughters on admission after the fire

Dr. Mustapha Sidiku Kaloko

Commitments from African governments and the AU have led to dramatic reduction in malaria deaths, a decline in HIV/AIDS incidence and maternal death

Health Cooperation

Health cooperation between China and Africa is not new: since the early 1960s, thousands of Chinese medical personnel have served in more than 40 African countries, providing services ranging from treatment of infectious diseases to complex surgeries. These investments have proved critical during the Ebola outbreak, as Chinese doctors helped to treat numerous patients, including several hundred in Sierra Leone.

In addition to providing and training health workers, China and African governments have worked together in 46 countries to build hospitals, clinics and malaria treatments centers, train health workers and distribute health equipment and drugs.

As collaboration between African countries and China increases, universal access to health care is a growing area of focus. At the last gathering of Ministers of Health from China and Africa,leaders enshrined theircommitment to "universal coverage of health systems" in the Beijing Declaration. This commitment linked ongoing collaboration around human resources, infrastructure and medicines to a broader focus on health coverage, with the goal of reaching everyone, even the poorest, with the services they need.

Universal Health Coverage is a priority for African countries, with new models and investments being made from Ethiopia to South Africa, and was the theme of the African Union's Africa Health Strategy from 2007-2015.

Ebola starkly highlighted that weak, or even non-existent, health systems are a primary obstacle to progress, and is an important reminder that attention to and resources for universal coverageare urgently needed.

Strong health systems: In our efforts to build strong health systems, China can be a valuable partner, drawing on its own recent domestic health system reform. In the last few years, China has achievedconsiderable progress in expanding health coverage, particularly in rural areas, using models that rely on training community health workers to respond to basic needs.

To be concluded.

COMMON SEXUAL PROBLEMS AND THEIR NOVELTY BASED SOLUTIONS (ADVERTORIAL)

I

AM a newlywed and I don’t have sexual experience.

I got married as a virgin. Maybe that is why my husband and I are frustrated with our sex life. Nothing we do is okay with both of us. I don’t enjoy the thing and my husband says that I don’t show interest – Grace Dear Grace, sex appears simple and straightforward, but it is not. So getting married with no sexual experience means that for quite some time, you will not know what you are doing.

It is like a woman who does not know how to cook and then she gets married without learning first. Of course the food that will come from her kitchen will not be good enough for a long time.

She has to learn how to cook first. So you and your husband must put aside your pride and accept that you need to learn. The good news is that you are willing to learn so that is a great start. There is a series of instructional adult films called the Expert Sex Series and it come in four volumes. It will be good for you. Get it and study it like a student. You will learn a lot within a short period of time.

It is also important that you both learn foreplay. Foreplay simply means romantic activity that takes place before penetrative intercourse. Holding hands, romantic talk, dirty talk, giving each other massages, kissing and heavy petting are all stages and forms of foreplay. You can learn more forms of foreplay from the adult game Cosmo’s Kinky Sex Games. You also need to get a vibrator and there are two types. There are the ones for the breasts and the ones for the genitals. Vibrators are sexual stimulators that essentially prepare a woman for intercourse.

They are also capable of arousing a woman to the point of complete satisfaction. So for the breasts, get the Doki Breast Massager. For the genitals, get the Arousal CobraVibrator.

And finally, when a woman is new to sex, she may initially struggle with lubrication due to inadequate or ineffective stimulation attempts. To avoid this, you need

a lubricant. Get the Mood Water Based Lubricant. It will help ensure there is no pain during penetration. I wish you luck – Uche Hello sir. Please I need a realistic vibrator but I want something pink or red in colour if you don’t mind. Sorry to be this specific – Jane Dear Jane, you don’t need to apologize for what you want. Pink and red are the favourite colours of most women anyway so your request does not come as a surprise. At the moment we have two realistic vibrators that are red in colour. They are the 7.5" Vibrating Jelly Dong and the 8" Vibrating Jelly Dong. So you can make your choice from these two – Uche I am on your website trying to order a supplement that can give me stronger erections but I need guidance.

I am 63 years old and I am not really good with computers. I have high blood pressure and my erection is very weak. Please what will you recommend? Thanks – Baba Chile Okay, because of your heart condition, I will recommend Magic Mike all natural supplement. It is mild but will give you firm erections and stamina to perform when you need it. One capsule can work for up to three days – Uche I am interested in penis enlargement but I cannot take pills. What else can you recommend? Ejike Ejike you can also use a cream like Maximus Enlargement Cream for enlargement or a penis pump such as the Potent Enlargement Pump. Any of these two will help you if used as directed – Uche And that is it for today. The names of the people here have been changed for their privacy. Adults in need of the above novelties and treatments can call us on 08027901621 or 08051924159 or any other number here to order or they can order online at www.zeevirtualmedia.com. We deliver to you wherever you are in Nigeria. For enquiries email us at custserv@zeevirtualmedia.com - Uche Edochie, MD, Zee Virtual Media.

Vanguard, THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2015—45

Emerhor, UPU congratulate Buhari on presidential poll victory A

LL Progressives Congress, APC, governorship candidate in Delta State, Olorogun O’tega Emerhor, has congratulated Nigeria’s President-elect, General Muhammadu Buhari (rtd) and Vice-President Elect, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo on their victory at the presidential poll.

Emerhor, in a statement by his Director of Media and Political Communication, Dr. Fred Oghenesivbe, described the Buhari/Osibanjo victory as divine and well deserved democratic phenomenon which the supreme God mysteriously crafted to bring positive change to the socioeconomic fortunes of the country.

Emerhor said that Gen. Buhari and Prof. Osinbajo are a combination that will turn around the economic fortunes of Nigeria for the benefit of Nigerians and the entire black continent. He called on Nigerians to join hands with the APC and its leaders to collectively benefit from the dividends of democracy which eluded Nigerians during the

16 years of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, misrule.

He said: “The wishes and aspirations of the Nigerian people to elect responsible and prudent political leaders at this critical time of our nation’s quest for economic remodeling have been expressed through the power

Lawmaker drums support for PDP in Delta

MEETING: From right: Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan of Delta State, Prof. Amos Utuama, Deputy Governor and Chief Benjamin Elue, former Deputy Governor, during a PDP Stakeholders meeting held in Government House, Asaba.

By Festus Ahon

A

SABA—THE m e m b e r representing Ukwuani constituency in Delta State House of Assembly, Alphonsus Ojo, has called on the people of Ndokwa nation to mobilise and vote massively for the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in the April 11 elections in order to sustain the tempo of development in the area.

Ojo, when members of the Ukwuani Foundation Union, UFU, paid him a visit to intimate him of the union’s resolve to canvass support for all PDP candidates in Ndokwa nation, called on the people to continue their support for PDP as the party has recorded major achievements at the federal, state and local government levels.

Earlier, President of UFU, Chief Afam Olise said that the UFU was founded in 1937 to promote the cultural heritage of the people of Ndokwa nation.

C M Y K

of the ballot box,” pointing out that the “great light” has finally sparkled on our country and now ready to take the centre stage in progressive world affairs.

He commended the Chairman of Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, Prof.

Attahiru Jega, for his courage

in the way he conducted the 2015 presidential election and insisted that in Delta State, votes were manipulated by agents of the PDP in collaboration with some INEC officials.

He urged the INEC boss to use his good office to fish out the bad eggs at the INEC office in the state.

INC lauds Jonathan’s concession speech, congratulates Buhari

By Jimitota Onoyume

P

ORT HARCOURT— APEX body of the Ijaw nation, Ijaw National Congress, INC, has lauded the bold step taken by their son by congratulating the President elect, General Muhammadu Buhari (rtd), after the general polls describing it as exemplary and worthy of emulation.

A statement by the national president of INC, Chief Bomar Obufuoribo, who also

congratulated winner of the Saturday ’s election, Gen. Buhari (retd).

“On behalf of the Ijaw ethnic nationality, we commend President Jonathan for his courageous outing in the 2015 Presidential election. He made all Nigerians proud by his unprecedented show of sportsmanship in accepting the verdict of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC.

“His telephone call to congratulate Buhari on his victory at the poll even before the formal declaration of result

by INEC is a statesmanly act that has endeared him as a role model for emerging leaders of our country and Africa.

“We congratulate General Buhari on his victory at the poll and wish him divine wisdom and courage to lead our dear Nigeria into a new era of peace and broadly shared prosperity."

....As MEND congratulates Buhari

By Emma Amaize

W

A R R I — T H E Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta, MEND, has commended the Presidentelect, General Muhammadu Buhari (rtd), on his victory in the presidential election, saying Nigerians made the right choice.

The group, in a statement by its spokesperson, Jomo Gbomo, said: “The Nigerian people have spoken and elected Buhari to be the next President of Nigeria. In doing so, we have not only made the right choice of a new

leadership, we have also reaffirmed the strength of our democracy.”

MEND also lauded President Goodluck Jonathan for his outstanding show of

statesmanship “in conceding defeat and setting precedence as the first ever incumbent Nigerian President to be defeated and concede defeat, without any interference.”

Ex-militants give 14-day ultimatum to oil firms

By Godwin Oghre

S

A P E L E — FOLLOWING the pipeline explosion which recently rocked Ekiugbo community in Ughelli North Local Government Area of Delta State on March 22, a group, under the aegis of Urhobo Gbagbako Youths, that claimed responsibility, has again issued a 14-day ultimatum to the state and federal governments to urgently award the surveillance contracts of Oil Mining Lease, OML 26, 30 and 34, located in their domain to members of the group or it will carry out more attacks.

In a statement yesterday in Sapele, its spokesman, Priest Omodjuvwu, also denied claim by a rival exmilitant group led by one Morris Idiovwa, to the effect that the latter group was responsible for the earlier explosion which rocked Ekiughbo oil installations, saying, “We blew the Ekiugbo installation up. Yes, we did it, and not the Morris Idiovwa group, not even their sponsor, the host c o m m u n i t i e s , HOSTCOM. “In the next few days, we shall blow up all oil installations in OML 26, 30 and 34 located in Urhoboland if our demand is not met by the government.

“In order to avoid further disaster, we strongly advise the Federal and State Governments, the Nigeria National Petroleum Cooperation, NNPC, the Nigerian Petroleum Development Company, NPDC, Shoreline to heed our warning.”

Oarhe hails Iriase over election victory

D

ICKSON Oarhe Campaign Network, DO-CAN, has described last Saturday's election as a plus to Nigeria's democracy particularly the outcome of the House of Representatives election in Owan federal constituency, Edo State.

DO-CAN, while congratulating the winner of the poll, Mr Pally Iriase of the All

Progressives Congress, APC, enjoined the federal lawmaker on his second term mandate to build further, especially in areas of concerns raised during his campaigns which is in the overall interest of Owan first, in all he does.

Meanwhile, a Federal High Court sitting in Benin, had adjourned till April 28, the suit

by Oarhe, seeking the court’s

pronouncement on who is the authentic candidate of Social Democratic Party, SDP. He is claiming in the suit that he emerged consensus candidate of the party at its primary election held 29, November, 2014 which was witnessed by the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, party delegates and supporters.

46—Vanguard, THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2015

16 LP members defect to PDP in Ebonyi

PRESIDENCY: Ex-ANPP scribe preaches consolidation

By Peter Okutu

A

BAKALIKI—AHEAD of April 11 governorship election in Ebonyi State, 16 executive members of Labour Party, LP, in the state yesterday defected to Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, following the crisis rocking the party.

Addressing journalists at the PDP secretariat in Abakaliki on behalf of other defectors, the state Financial Secretary of the party, Prince Augustine Nwankwo, who complained bitterly about the programmes and policies of LP, alleged that its activities had been hijacked by some forces in the state government.

He said they decided to defect to PDP because of the embezzlement of over N10 million belonging to the party by some politicians in the

By Chimaobi Nwaiwu

F

ORMER scribe of All Nigerian Peoples Party, ANPP, in Anambra State, Sir Kennedy Mmoya, has called on the South-East and Nigerians to eschew religious and ethnic sentiments, join hands with General Muhammadu Buhari (retd) to consolidate on the achievements of President Goodluck Jonathan and take Nigeria to the next level.

Mmuoya, who spoke yesterday in Onitsha, urged South-East politicians to embrace APC and join hands with the administration of Buhari to better their lot as Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, had nothing meaningful to offer them.

He said: “I know that APC will come alive again in Anambra State and South-East with the coming of a new government.

“Anambra State was an ANPP stronghold. Now that the party collapsed into APC that will lead a new government, Anambra people will find their roots in the party.”

He expressed delight with the conduct of President Jonathan concerning Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, especially his decision not to interfere with the activities of the electoral body.

state, adding that the executives of the party had been relegated to the background in the affairs of the party.

He said: “On behalf of other state executives of labour party, LP, Ebonyi State chapter, we hereby formally defect to Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, with effect from today (yesterday).

“The reasons for our defection are too numerous, but permit me to mention few of them: there is internal crisis rocking the state chapter of LP executives, which was a fall- out of the unmitigated fraud and embezzlement of over N10 million belonging to the party by some people.

“There is also the highhandedness being exhibited by the state Chairman of LP in

Ogun governorship won’t be easy for Amosun—PASEDA

By Olasunkanmi Akoni

T

HE governorship candidate of Unity Party of Nigeria, UPN, in Ogun State, Prince Rotimi Paseda, has said the election would not be an easy ride for the incumbent, Governor Ibikunle Amosun.

Speaking during a town hall meeting in the state, Paseda, who received an overwhelming support from the people of the state when he visited the refugee camp, Oru, Ehin Osun, Idowa, Ososa, Igbile, Agbado area of Ogun State and others, said: “I know my people and my people want a change and the change is Paseda.

“I decided to venture into politics so as to develop Ogun State and to re-introduce

Awolowo’s legacies, which has eluded the people.

“I am a beneficiary of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s free education policy and I believe posterity will not forgive any beneficiary of free education policy, who now has the opportunity to do same to the poor masses of this country, particularly in Ogun State, but denied them of that legitimate right.”

Paseda, who was recently honoured in Ijebu Omu with a chieftaincy title, said his coronation was a call to service.

Also the UPN’s Organizing Secretary, Dr. Ola Olateju, told the crowd that his party was in the race to consolidate on Awo’s legacies, which had eluded the populace for a very long time.

alliance with his hired fingerlings.

“We wish to contribute our quota in electing Engr. Dave Umahi on Saturday April 11 governorship poll as the next governor of the state.”

Prince Nwankwo lamented that LP was founded on a fraudulent plank and called on the people of the state to ignore the purported sentiment that LP would engender development, adding that the leaders in the party had no credibility to effect a change in the

Abia youths protest National Assembly election results

By Anayo Okoli

U

M U A H I A — HUNDREDS of youths drawn from the 17 local government areas of Abia State, Tuesday, stormed the state headquarters of Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, protesting results of the National Assembly elections held last Saturday.

They alleged that the results of the elections, as released, were not a true reflection of the voting pattern as witnessed at the various polling units in their councils.

Displaying placards with such inscriptions as “Local Government Headquarters are rigging centres,” “stop sharing our votes,” “INEC, our votes must count,” “Democracy is not all about rigging,” the youths insisted on hearing directly from the Resident Electoral Commissioner, REC, Professor Selina Oko. However, they were not allowed into INEC promises

N as much as I heartily congratulate Muhammadu Buhari on his victory, I equally congratulate President Goodluck Jonathan for being an honourable man. He did not renege on his promise of giving Nigerians free and fair elections.— Miss Constance Nduba, NYSC. C M Y K

C

by security agents.

Addressing the protesters after submitting their grievances to REC, the leader of the group, Nkem Nwosu, appealed to them to disperse peacefully after getting the assurance of the REC to look into their grievances.

He said: “The message has been handed over to INEC and they have promised to look into the grievances. I want you to disperse from here satisfied that your grievances have been taken to the appropriate quarters.

“We have articulated our grievance over the rigging in the last Saturday election; it is put down on paper here.

“We have advised the REC on what to do in the interest of peace and it has been submitted to her.”

Meanwhile, the result of Abia North senatorial zone had not been officially released Tuesday, prompting the various candidates who converged on INEC headquarters, Umuahia, to trade accusations, even as each of them, particularly Mao Ohuabunwa of PDP and David Onuoha of APGA are laying claims to victory.

By Bartholomew Madukwe (08102479985) nwamad@yahoo.com

PEOPLE SPEAK

I

development of the state.

“We sincerely call on Ebonyi people to vote massively for PDP at the forthcoming polls to ensure greater development, equity, fairness, peace and nurturing of our nascent democracy.”

Receiving the defectors, Acting Chairman of PDP in the state, Chief Joseph Onwe, directed all ward chairmen of PDP to issue membership cards to the defectors, stressing that the party was ready to accept more members of opposition political parties in the state.

What is your view on Saturday’s election?

ONCERNING the ASUP/Federal Government agreement, which began in 2009, during Yar’Adua administration, I am of the firm belief that the incoming administration will resolve all outstanding issues expeditiously.—Mr. Chibuzor Asomugha, Lecturer.

G

MB’S victory is a de fining moment for Nigeria, while history will be kind to GEJ for not interfering in the electoral process and for conceding defeat. In the final analysis, let’s continue to pray for God’s Kingdom to come.—Mr. Joseph Jibueze, Journalist.

I

F GEJ was afraid of the outcome of the justconcluded presidential election, he never showed it. Before the election was held, he had started giving conditions on the type of people he wanted to dominate the forthcoming National Assembly.— Miss Shade Tosin, Self-Employed.

C

O N G R AT U L A TIONS to General Muhammadu Buhari. I urge you to be magnanimous in victory. May God guide you and grant you the wisdom to pilot the affairs of our nation.

Victory for democracy, victory for Nigerians.— Mr. Richard Akinnola, Activist.

T

HIS is, however, not the time for anyone to gloat. The economy is damaged and our country is deeply divided.

This is the time to come together and rebuild our country in peace.

Please, let us say no to violence. It would only set us back. —Mr. Ralph Nwoke, Lawyer.

Vanguard, THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2015—47

Al-Makura urges Nigerians to pray for Buhari L

AFIA — GOVERNOR Umaru Al-Makura of Nasarawa State, yesterday, called on the citizenry to pray to God to assist the President-elect, General Muhammadu Buhari, to succeed in the task ahead of him.

Al-makura told the News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, in Lafia that prayers were necessary if Buhari would successfully execute the task of nation building expected of him.

Al-Makura had earlier congratulated the President- elect through a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Yakubu Lamai .

“The newly elected President needs prayers from all and sundry. Prayer is the only weapon that can put Buhari on the right to path to move the country forward,” he said.

Al-Makura urged both Muslims and Christians to prayer for peace, unity and progress of the nation.

"The two religions preach peace, love and unity. As such we should all adhere to the teachings of our Holy Books,” he told NAN. Al-makura also advised the party’s supporters to celebrate the victory with highest degree of

decency.

He said by doing so, the supporters would be alive to enjoy the dividends of democracy under Buhari administration.

“Don’t go out to display your happiness in such a way that you

will go and kill yourself.

"We can celebrate his victory in both mosques and churches,” the governor said.

Al-makura also called on Nigerians to continue to tolerate and live in peace with one

another, irrespective of religious, cultural or ethnic diversity.

He said peace and unity were key to national development, adding that the citizenry should work together to move the country forward.

MASS: Catholic Archbishop of Abuja, John Onaiyekan, consecrating the holy Eucharist, during the Catholic Chrism mass, in Abuja, yesterday.

Gov. Aliyu tasks INEC on the mode of next election

By Wole Mosadomi

M

INNA — NIGER State Governor Dr. Muazu Babangida Aliyu, yesterday, asked the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, to give clear directive on the mode of voting to be adopted in the April 11 governorship and House of Assembly elections to avoid confusion.

Aliyu regretted the type of confusion experienced in the presidential election when both the card readers and the manual system were used.

The governor, who was defeated in the senatorial election, said that he called the winner David Umaru, seven times to congratulate him, but stressed that his phone calls were neither picked or returned.

Addressing newsmen at the

Government House, Minna, he said that if the INEC intended to use both the card readers and manual accreditation, the voters and the electoral officers should be aware of the development ahead of the next election.

He also advised INEC to start training its staff towards the use of the electronic voting ahead of the 2019 general elections instead of always waiting until the last

minute. ‘’We should start training our staff about electronic voting now and not until when it is six weeks to elections,’’ he remarked He praised INEC for a job well done in last Saturday’s election, adding that the smooth conduct of the elections had added more value to the entrenchment of democracy in the country.

Reacting to his defeat at the

We ensured security during March 28 polls —Navy

L

AGOS — THE Western Naval Command of the Nigerian Navy, NN, yesterday, expressed satisfaction with its security arrangements for protecting Nigerian waters during the presidential and National Assembly polls.

The spokesman of the command, Lt. Commander Abdusalam Sanni, made the assertion while speaking with the News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, in Lagos.

He said the Nigerian Navy had adequate manpower that

PDP chieftain makes case for Okowa’s election victory

W

ARRI—AHEAD of the April 11 governorship election, Ochuko Odugba, President, Concerned Isoko Youth for Good Governance, and a Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, chieftan in Isoko North/South Local Government Area of Delta State, yesterday, re-affirmed the Isoko nation’s commitment to work and campaign for the state’s PDP governorship candidate, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa till he got victory.

Odugba, who stated this during C M Y K

polls, Aliyu simply said: ‘’It is the will of God and an accumulation of issues,’’ which he said, would give him and the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, ‘’the chance to be strategical.’’

He stressed that he had already conceded defeat to the winner, David Umaru, adding that he had called him and sent text to him severally, but without any response from him.

a campaign tour of the two Isoko local government areas, urged the people to ensure that they put their Permanent Voters Cards, PVCs, into productive use by voting en bloc for the PDP, and also called on the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, to improve on the just concluded elections by ensuring that electoral materials got to the various polling units on time.

He said: “We reiterate the position of our party, the PDP that all eligible voters must be

effectively mobilised for the twin purpose of winning the coming election, and sustaining the laudable projects of the PDP-led government in the state.”

According to the Public Relations Officer of Concerned Isoko Youth for Good Governance, Frank Oghor: “The aim of our work is to showcase the people-oriented programmes of our governorship candidate to the electorate, as well as sensitise them on the need to vote PDP all the way on April 11.”

patrolled the sea to support the Nigerian Police Force in ensuring safety during the elections.

“We did what we were supposed to do as regards the Nigerian waters to secure it from any illegalities.

“As a matter of fact, no arrest was made by the command during the elections because we made sure the waters were safe due to the patrols we carried out.

“We started our patrol even before the election period and we made sure the waters were safe, even up till the election day and till now,” he said.

Sanni also told NAN that the command had deployed their gun boats and ships to ensure that the governorship and House of Assembly elections go smoothly, crime- and hitch-free.

“The waters will be safe for the upcoming elections just as we have ensured its safety for the presidential and National Assembly elections,” he said.

Yuguda congratulates Buhari

By Suzan Edeh

B

AUCHI — THE Bauchi State Governor, Isa Yuguda has congratulated the President-elect, General Mohammadu Bahari, rtd, over his victory at the polls as well as other All Progressives Congress, APC, candidates who won the National Assembly election in the state.

Yuguda, who spoke yesterday, while addressing newsmen at the Government House in Bauchi, also congratulated his rival, Ali Wakili, who contested and won the senatorial seat.

Yuguda described his defeat in the National Assembly election as the will of God, saying that he had never been aggrieved about the outcome of the election as it had availed other young politicians the opportunity to serve the people of the state.

....Yero, Danjuma La’ah too!

By Luka Binniyat

K

ADUNA — KADUNA State governor, Dr. Mukhtar Yero, has congratulated the President-elect, General Muhammadu Buhari (retd) of the All Progressives Congress, APC, over his victory at the just concluded presidential election.

Also, Chief Danjuma La’ah, the only Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Senator-elect from the North West Zone, representing the Southern Kaduna senatorial district, yesterday, congratulated Buhari, saying his zone would give him all the cooperation he desired.

Both Yero and La’ah congratulated Buhari in a separate statements.

Yero said: “I wish to congratulate General Buhari over his victory at the just concluded presidential election.

“I also salute the patriotic courage of President Goodluck Jonathan for displaying uncommon spirit of sportsmanship by conceding defeat.”

On his part, La’ah said: “Following the mature and patriotic path of President Goodluck Jonathan, I want to warmly congratulate Gen. Buhari, for winning the presidential contest in an election that was adjudged, free and fair.

48—Vanguard, THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2015

THANK YOU VISIT: From left; Mrs Binta Garba, Adamawa North, Alhaji Abdul-azeez Nyako, Adamawa Central, and Alhaji Ahmad Abubakar, Adamawa South, all newly elected APC Senators from Adamawa State, during a thank you visit, at the party's state secretariat in Yola, yesterday. Photo: NAN.

MEETING: From left; Mr Waheed Ishola, Director, National Orientation Agency, Lagos State, Mr Lanre Arogundade, Director, International Press Centre, Lagos, ACP Edward Egbuka representing Lagos State Commisioner of Police, and Mr Adeola Soetan, Executive Director, Democracy Vanguard, during a stakeholders' policy meeting on ensuring violence-free election in Lagos. Photo: Lamidi Bamidele.

NIGERIAN IDOL: From left; Iwuchukwu Franca, Edema Paradise, Okukusie Precious, Oyinkepreye Deborah, and Ogunmoyero Modolowamu, during the group stage performance of Nigerian Idol 5 Top 30 contestants, at the OMG Dream Studios, Ojodu-Omole, Lagos.

BRIEFING: From left: Mr. Chike Maduekwe, former Governor of Imo State, Ikedi Ohakim, and Chairman, Grand Towers Plc., Nze Chidi Duru, during a briefing by Igbo Conversational Group, ICG, in Abuja, yesterday.

BRIEFING: Oyo State Resident Electoral Commissioner, Mr Rufus Akeju (left), reviewing the performance of the Oyo INEC at a briefing in Ibadan, yesterday. Photo: Dare Fasube.

MENTORING: Osun Area Controller, Skye Bank Plc, Mr. Ayoyemi Dairo and Head, Sustainability and Consumer Protection Unit of the bank, Mrs Bola Adesanoye, with students of Pheobstar Royalty School, Osogbo when Skye Bank mentored the students on financial literacy, in Osogbo.

C M Y K

MEDICAL OUTREACH: From left; Representative of Director General, NACA/SURE-P, Dr. Ibrahim Mamadu, Head, Corporate Communications, NACA/SURE-P, Stella Agbim, and Project Director, Dr. Sebastine Wakdok, during NACA/SURE-P's free medical outreach at Kwoi, Kaduna State.

DONATION: From left (Back Row);Mrs Olubukola Lanipekun-Lawal, FSDH Merchant Bank Ltd, Mrs Olufola Wiltshire, Head, HR/Admin., FSDH Merchant Bank Ltd, and Principal, Dolphin Senior High School, Mr. Samuel Akindunbi, during the donation of 600 chairs to the school by the bank in Lagos.

Vanguard, THURSD AY, APRIL 2, 2015—49 THURSDA

C M Y K

50 — V anguard, THURSD AY, APRIL 2, 2015 Vanguard, THURSDA

C M Y K

Vanguard, THURSD AY, APRIL 2, 2015—51 THURSDA

C M Y K

52 — V anguard, THURSD AY, APRIL 2, 2015 Vanguard, THURSDA

C M Y K

Vanguard, THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2015—53

POLLS: Police warn political parties in Enugu over protests

Aba landlords commend Jonathan for accepting defeat

By Anayo Okoli

By Francis Igata

E

NUGU — THE Enugu State police command has warned political parties in the state, especially those which lost elections, to desist from unlawful protests that will mar the peace that prevailed in the state.

This came as thousands of supporters of the former governor of Enugu State, Dr. Chimaroke Nnamani, under the platform of Peoples Democratic Change ,PDC, last Monday and yesterday, trooped to the streets to protest Enugu-East senatorial district result for which Gilbert Nnaji was declared winner.

As a result of the protest, there was traffic gridlock for several hours at the ever busy Ogbete Main Market and Old Park axis of Enugu metropolis forcing traders to close shops.

In the process of the peaceful march, security men used tear gas to disperse the protesters.

A statement signed and made available to newsmen yesterday,by the Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, Mr. Ebere Amaraizu, said: “The command wishes to inform

members of the public that its attention has been drawn to a planned protest of mischief by some alleged aggrieved political party members/ supporters in the state.

“To this end,the command has warned in strong terms that

members of the public should be law abiding and channel their grievances, if any,to appropriate and lawful quarters. ‘’They should also avoid taking laws into their hands as security operatives of the

command are working in partnership with other relevant security agencies in the state to identify and fish out those in this habit, with a view to bringing them to book in line with the relevant sections of the law,’’ the PPRO said.

Fire incident at one of the buildings housing National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, office at Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Ikeja, Lagos, yesterday.

EBONYI GOVERNORSHIP: APGA, APC in secret alliance

with LP against PDP

By Peter Okutu

A

BAKALIKI — OPPOSITION political parties in Ebonyi State are holding a secret meeting with the governor, Martin Elechi, on how to form a merger against the ruling Peoples Democratic Party, PDP in the state.

A source close to Government

House revealed that the political parties anticipated to join the alliance include the All Progressive Grand Alliance, APGA, Labour Party, LP and the All Progressive Congress, APC. Vanguard learned that the meeting is intended to collapse Labour Party and APGA into APC in order to form a merger against the PDP in the April 11

governorship election.

The merger, which might likely fail because of the ideological differences of the political parties, has been described as the last attempt by Governor Elechi to frustrate the governorship ambition of PDP candidate, Engr.

Dave Umahi.

Meanwhile, the chairman of Media and Publicity for Divine

Gani Adams, LP, UNDEDSS laud Buhari, Jonathan •Fasehun calls for calm

By Dapo Akinrefon ATIONAL Coordinator the Oodua Peoples Congress, OPC, Otunba Gani Adams, has congratulated the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Maj-General Muhammudu Buhari (retd).

He, however, called on the Buhari to see himself as president of all and not of the APC. But the founder of the group, Dr Frederick Fasehun has called on Nigerians to be of good conduct.

Adams in a statement said “by his resounding success in the election across the country, General Buhari has proved that he is the choice of the people. I commend his resilience and tenacity over the years which have seen him equal the record of great

N

leaders like Abraham Lincoln of the USA.” He added that “his victory is a lesson to all of us that we can be what we want to be if we are patient and persistent in our legitimate pursuits in life. His speeches before, during and after the election are also commendable because they went a long way in dousing the tension in the country. This actually shows that the peoples general as he is fondly called is indeed a statesman.”

He urged the President-elect to see himself as the presidentelect of all Nigerians and “not just that of the All Progressives Congress (APC). For him, it is time to mend whatever differences that may have arisen as a result of the election.”

“It is time for all Nigerians,

irrespective of political affiliation, to come together to continue to build our nation in a positive way, which of course, should be the focus of the president-elect himself and every other political leader across the various political parties in the country,” he said.

Mandate Campaign Organisation of the PDP governorship candidate, Senator Emmanuel Onwe, described the alliance as one that was bound to fail.

According to him, PDP has already consolidated in the state, following the results of the last presidential and National Assembly elections in the state.

“They will gather to conspire but they will scatter in hopelessness. This agenda is nothing but the agenda of losers, the desperation of political merchants and the foolishness of crass opportunists. “The PDP will remain resolute, confident and focussed as we march into the second half of a game in which we have already won.

Don’t recognise PDP as winner, Ojukwu’s son tells INEC

By Nwabueze Okonkwo NITSHA — CANDIDATE of All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA, for Nnewi North/ Nnewi South/Ekwusigo federal constituency of Anambra State in last week’s National Assembly election, Chief Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu (jnr) has advised the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC not to issue any certificate

O

of return to his Peoples Democratic Party, PDP rival, Chris Emeka Azubogu, yet as the acclaimed winner of the election in the interest of peace and stability.

Ojukwu, who yesterday reacted to the outcome of the National Assembly election at Nnewi, told newsmen that the result of the election as declared by the INEC was not the true reflection of the wishes of the electorate.

U

MUAHIA — ABA landlords, under the umbrella of Landlords Protection and Development Association, ALPADA, has commended President Goodluck Jonathan for conceding defeat to Presidentelect, General Muhammadu, saying it was a great lesson that Nigerian leaders should learn for the nation to move forward.

The new President-General of the Association, Chief Alphonsus Udeigbo, who gave the commendation, yesterday, in Aba, said the President showed high level of maturity.

According to Udeigbo, the mature way President Jonathan accepted the result of the election had endeared him to the hearts of Nigerians. “I urge Nigerians to follow the foot-steps of Dr. Jonathan for peace and progress of our great nation, because what he has done stands him out as another Mandela in Nigeria."

BMC alleges electoral fraud In Warri LGs

W

ARRI—A PROG e n e r a l Muhammadu Buhari political pressure group in the Niger Delta, Buhari Movement for Change, BMC, has described the presidential and National Assembly elections results from Warri South, Warri South-West and Warri North Local Government areas, as released by the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, as “concocted and fraudulent,” insisting “it was the highest form of rigging.”

A statement in Warri by the group’s Public Relations Officer, Dr. Emiko Ofuyakpone, declared that “majority of people in the three local government areas openly showed their desire for change by voting Buhari/ Osinbajo en mass.”

Church holds Easter retreat

S

OLID FOUNDATION Holy Ghost Bible Church, Ajangbadi, Ojo, holds its Easter retreat, entitled, Triumph over Death, April 2 - 5, 2015. A statement by the General Overseer of the Church, Pastor Rachael Aribatise said, the Easter Retreat would send a message to the nation that Nigeria will surely triumph over her challenges as Jesus Christ triumphed over death through resurrection.

54—Vanguard, THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2015

The die is cast Being acceptance statement by General Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, President-elect of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, April 1, 2015

I

AM immensely grateful to God for this day and for this hour. I feel truly honoured and humbled that the Nigerian people have so clearly chosen me to lead them.The official announcement from INEC was the moment the vast majority of Nigerians had hoped and been waiting for. Today, history has been made, and change has finally come.

Your votes have changed our national destiny for the good of all Nigerians. INEC has announced that I, Muhammadu Buhari, shall be your next president. My team and I shall faithfully serve you.

There shall no longer be a ruling party again: APC will be your governing party. We shall faithfully serve you. We shall never rule over the people as if they were subservient to government.

Our long night has passed and the daylight of new democratic governance has broken across the land. This, therefore, is not a victory for one man or even one party. It is a victory for Nigeria and for all Nigerians. Millions of you have worked for this day. So many have risked life and livelihood; and others have died that we may witness this moment.

Celebrating the victory And it is with a very heavy heart that I report many deaths and injuries amidst the jubilation, yesterday. We send our sincere condolences to the families and friends of those who lost their lives; and wish speedy recovery to those who suffered injuries. I appeal to all our supporters to celebrate this victory with prayers and reflection instead of wild jubilation.

May the souls of those who died rest in peace. Let us take a moment of silence to honour all of those whose sacrifices have brought us to this fine and historic hour. As the results of the election have shown, their labour has not been and will never be in vain.

Democracy and the rule of law will be re-established in the land.

Let us put the past, especially the recent past, behind us. We must forget our old battles and past grievances - and learn to forge ahead. I assure you that our government is one that will listen to and embrace all.I pledge myself and our in-coming administration to just and principled governance.

There shall be no bias against or favouritism for any Nigerian based on ethnicity, religion, region, gender or social status. I pledge myself and the government to the rule of law, in which none shall be so above the

law that they are not subject to its dictates, and none shall be so below it that they are not availed of its protection.

You shall be able to go to bed knowing that you are safe and that your constitutional rights remain in safe hands. You shall be able to voice your opinion without fear of reprisal or victimisation. My love and concern for this nation and what I desire for it extends to all, even to those who do not like us or our politics.

You are all my people and I shall treat everyone of you as my own.

I shall work for those who voted for me as well as those who voted against me and even for those who did not vote at all. We all live under one name as one nation: we are all Nigerians. Some unfortunate issues about my eligibility have been raised during the campaign.

I wish to state that through devotion to this nation, everything I have learned and done has been to enable me to make the best possible contribution to public life.

If I had judged myself incapable of governing I would never have sought to impose myself on it. I have served in various capacities and have always put in my best.

But despite the rancour of the elections, I extend a hand of friendship and conciliation to President Jonathan and his team.

I hereby wish to state that I harbour no ill will against anyone.

Let me state clearly that President Jonathan has nothing to fear from me. Although we may

This is not a victory for one man or even one party. It is a victory for Nigeria and for all Nigerians.

Millions of you have worked for this day

•Presidential- Elect, Gen. Muhammed Buhari, reading his acceptance Speech while his Deputy Prof.

Femi Osinbajo looks on in Abuja. Photo:Gbemiga Olamikan.

not agree on the methods of governing the nation, he is a great Nigerian and still our president.

He deserves our support and permanent respect by virtue of the office he has held.

This is how an honourable nation treats its servants and conducts its affairs; and this is how Nigeria should be.I look forward to meeting with President Jonathan in the days to come to discuss how our teams can make the transition of administrations as efficient as possible.Here, I want to thank my party for selecting me as its candidate.

Steadfast contributions I thank our party leaders and members for the steadfast contributions they made to bring our dream to fruition. I thank INEC, the police and all other government agencies for performing their tasks in a proper manner and for refusing to be induced to undermine the election and the democratic process.

I also wish to thank religious Leaders, traditional leaders, the media, labor unions, Civil Society organisations, organised private sector, youths and students for their roles in this election.I give special thanks to President Obama and his timely intervention and support for peaceful and credible elections in Nigeria and for sending Secretary John Kerry and other United States officials.

The European Union especially the United Kingdom, France, Germany and other nations that were actively involved in ensuring the success of this election are equally appreciated. My sincere thanks to the United Nations Secretary General Mr Ban-Ki Moon.

The Commonwealth, China, India and other Asian and Gulf states are also hereby appreciated. Finally our brothers in the African Union and ECOWAS have truly and clearly shown and demonstrate their commitment to our democratisation process.

Former Presidents John Kuffour, Amos Sawyer, Bakili Muluzi and his team are well appreciated. I must also add my appreciation for the role played by civil societies, national and International observers, other

world leaders in ensuring that Nigeria holds free and fair elections.

I assure all foreign governments that Nigeria will become a more forceful and constructive player in the global fight against terrorism and in other matters of collective concern, such as the fight against drugs, climate change, financial fraud, communicable diseases and other issues requiring global response.

I want to assure our fellow African nations that Nigeria will now stand as a more constructive partner in advancing the matters of concern to our continent, particularly with regard to economic development and eradication of poverty.

Former head of state and president Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, General Yakubu Gowon, Alh. Shehu Shagari, General Ibrahim Babangida, Chief Ernest Shonekan and General Abdulsalami Abubakar deserve commendations for their statesmanship and words of caution and counsel for peace during the tense moments of this electoral period.

Economic decline Most of all, I thank the people of Nigeria for reposing their confidence in me at this trying moment. Our nation wrestles many challenges including insecurity, corruption, economic decline. I pledge to give you my best in tackling these problems.

The good people of Nigeria, your obligation does not end with casting your ballot. I seek your voice and input as we tackle these problems. This will not be a government democratic only in form. It will be a government democratic in substance and in how it interacts with its own people.

No doubt, this nation has suffered greatly in the recent past, and its staying power has been tested to its limits by crises, chief among which is insurgency of the Boko Haram. There is no doubt that in tackling the insurgency we have a tough and urgent job to do. But I assure you that Boko Haram will soon know the strength of our collective will and commitment to rid this nation of terror, and bring back peace and normalcy to all the affected areas.

We shall spare no effort until we

defeat terrorism.

Furthermore, we shall strongly battle another form of evil that is even worse than terrorism—the evil of corruption. Corruption attacks and seeks to destroy our national institutions and character. By misdirecting into selfish hands funds intended for the public purpose, corruption distorts the economy and worsens income inequality.

It creates a class of unjustlyenriched people.

Such an illegal yet powerful force soon comes to undermine democracy because its conspirators have amassed so much money that they believe they can buy government. We shall end this threat to our economic development and democratic survival. I repeat that corruption will not be tolerated by this administration; and it shall no longer be allowed to stand as if it is a respected monument in this nation.

Respected monument I ask you to join me in resolving these and the other challenges we face. Along the way, there will be victories but there may also be setbacks. Mistakes will be made.

But we shall never take you for granted; so, be rest assured that our errors will be those of compassion and commitment not of wilful neglect and indifference.

We shall correct that which does not work and improve that which does. We shall not stop, stand or idle. We shall, if necessary crawl, walk and run to do the job you have elected us to do.

I realise that the expectation of our people today is as high as their commitment to change has been strong and their belief in us unshaken. While we pledge to begin doing our best without delay, we would like to appeal to them to appreciate the gravity of our situation, so that we become more realistic in our expectations.

We will govern for you and in your interests. Your vote was not wasted. This is not the first time Nigerians have cast their votes for us, and this is not the first time they have been counted; but this is the first time that the votes have been allowed to count. With the help of God, we pledge to do our utmost to bring forth the Nigeria you seek.

Thank you for your patience and attention.

Vanguard, THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2015 — 55

Ex-gov Makarfi concedes defeat to Hunkuyi, congratulates Buhari K

ADUNA—FORMER governor of Kaduna State, Senator Ahmed Mohammed Makarfi, has conceded victory to his opponent in the last Saturday’s presidential and National Assembly election in the country, Alhaji Suleiman Hunkuyi and congratulated the President- elect, General Mohammed Buhari over his victory at the polls.

This was contained in a statement signed on his Media Aide, Alhaji Mukhtar Zubairu Sirajo in Kaduna yesterday.

The statement read, ‘’With the release of the results of last Saturday’s elections, Senator Ahmed Makarfi wishes to place on record his unqualified gratitude to God Almighty for not only the violence-free nature of the exercise, but also for all the favours He has been bestowing on him along the trajectory that He has designed for him. ‘’He also wishes to extend his most sincere appreciation to all his political associates, along the various dispensations, for the support, understanding and camaraderie that have been defining the relationships developed over this period. ‘’He also thanks the good people of Kaduna State for giving them the opportunity to serve them for eight years as their Governor; and the

people of the Northern Senatorial Zone of the state for the opportunity to represent them at the Senate for another eight Years. Words cannot convey the depth of his appreciation to them. He only prays to Allah (SWT) to reward them abundantly and continue to sustain the relationship.

‘’As a firm believer in God and the fact that all power belongs to Him to give to whosoever it pleases Him to, Senator Ahmed Makarfi accepts the results as the Will of God and hereby congratulates all those who were successful and wishes them God’s guidance.

‘’In particular Senator Makarfi extends his hearty congratulations to General Muhammadu Buhari over his victory in the presidential polls, believing that, the General will bring his wealth of experience, integrity, fairness as well as legendary discipline to lift Nigeria higher.’’

MEETING: From the left, Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan of Delta State; Governor Theodore Orji of Abia State; Governor Jonah Jang of Plateu State; Governor Sulivan Chime of Enugu State; Governor Liyel Imokeh of Cross River State; Governor Godswill Akpabio of Akwa Ibom State; Governor Seriake Dickson of Bayelsa State and the Kogi State Governor, Captain Idris Wada departing after a closed-door meeting between PDP Governors and President Goodluck Jonathan at the State House, Abuja. Photo by Abayomi Adeshida

DEMOLITION OF UNIBEN STAFF QUARTERS: Clark writes Oshiomhole ...Says action is barbaric, violation of law

By Henry Umoru

S

OUTH South leader, Chief Edwin Clark has described the demolition of the University of Benin Staff quarters by Governor Adams Oshiomhole of Edo State as illegal, malicious, barbaric, and a gross violation of the law.

In a four- page letter to Governor Oshiomhole, Chief Clark who noted that the governor exhibited malice in his action, however, asked the governor to as a matter of urgency rebuild the demolished houses as well as put them back as they were, adding that he has no such right whatsoever to demolish or acquire Federal Government property without the required and appropriate negotiations.

He said, “My advice to you, is that, as a matter of reparation, you must immediately rebuild those houses. Indeed, put them back as they were.”

The elder statesman who explained that it became imperative for his intervention against the backdrop that he was the Commissioner for Education in the old Mid West when the Former Military governor, General Samuel Ogbemudia was the founder and first Visitor of the University of Benin, added “The wickedness that accompanied the demolition, where

occupants were not given any opportunity to take their belongings before the building were demolished is better imagined than experienced. It was a most callous and barbaric exercise designed to shatter the spirit and self esteem of the occupants.

“It is very sad that despite all entreaties and appeal made to you by different bodies,

including the National University Commission, NUC, you were resolute and went ahead to pull down the buildings disgracefully.

“These buildings were donated by the Mid-West State Government which later became Bendel state and now Edo/Delta states. The implication is that they were assets that have been disposed effectively and permanently before Edo and Delta States were born. They were never listed as existing assets of Bendel state to be shared

between Edo and Delta states. At the time the two states shared assets belonging to the old Bendel state, these buildings were already properties of the University of Benin in law and in fact. ''Your Excellency, if you have any doubt that the buildings belong to the University, you may please produce the relevant documents to show that when Bendel State was carved into two states, the buildings you demolished were given to Edo State.''

NPA gets new tug boats to boost efficiency at Lagos ports

By Ifeyinwa Obi

L

AGOS—IN order to keep o its promise of boosting efficiency, the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) Management may have acquired two 60-tons buller- pull tug boats with state of the art, fully computerized engines, to meet the increasing demands of critical stakeholders, within the Lagos Pilotage District.

The Managing Director, Mallam Habib Abdullahi had last year, during the 2nd year anniversary of the present management’s administration assured the critical stakeholders t

that he had completed arrangements for the acquisition of four new built, out of which two built, have now arrived, in validation of a determination, to significantly boost the efficiency and productivity of the ports in Lagos.

It was further learnt that once the two new tug boats procured through tenders, were effectively deployed, a significant reduction may come to end the present complaints of tugs insufficiency, within the Lagos ports.

The two tug boats, with one of them christened “UROMI”, had twin fire fighting pumps, with a reach of above 300 meters and the flow is over 600 cubic meters

per hour of water and foam, making it the strongest equipment in its category in the country. Presently, the biggest tugs in Lagos have capacity not beyond 45- ton buller-pulls, while the biggest in Port Harcourt pilotage district, according to investigation might not be up to 50-ton buller pulls.

Speaking after a thorough appraisal of both tugs, followed by a boarding and demonstration of powers in one of the new built,

by NPA top staffers, led by the General Manager, Marine and Operations, A. A Goje, the applause was unmistakable.

Goje who was particularly interested in its fire-fighting

Omeri hails Nigerians, security agencies over peaceful polls

By Caleb Ayansina

A

BUJA—THE Director-General of the National Orientation Agency, NOA, Mr. Mike Omeri has commended Nigerians and security agencies for the peaceful conduct in last Saturday’s Presidential and National Assembly elections, describing it as a sign of the country ’s political consciousness and maturity.

In a statement signed by the agency ’s Assistant Director (Press), Paul Odenyi, Omeri particularly hailed Nigerians for maintaining peace, law and order before, during and after the polls, urging staff of the agency to redouble their efforts, for the governorship and state Assembly elections on April 11.

...As Yoruba Youth Council lauds Clark, Jonathan

Y

ORUBA Youth Council, YYC, has described Chief Edwin Clark as a most supportive and inspiring father of youths in Nigeria.

YYC also hailed President Goodluck Jonathan for the groundbreaking for the Export Processing Zone, EPZ, better known as the Gas City Project, in Ogidigben and the Deep Sea Port, Gbaramatu, both in Warri South Local of Delta State.

In a release made available to newsmen, the National President, YYC, Eric Oluwole noted that the decision of the president to concede defeat to the All Progressives Congress presidential flag bearer in the just-concluded election shows he is a true democrat and a statesman, adding that as a good leader, the president put the nation above his personal interest.

He also commended the president over the implementation of the resolutions reached at the last national confab.

“Chief Edwin Clark has been the most supportive and inspiring father of youths in Nigeria. We want to erase the notion that the South West region has not benefited from the present administration, which was not correct,'' he said.

56 — VANGUARD, WEDNESDAY, APRIL 2 , 2015

B-R-I-E-F-S Tur key arrests 9 British nationals urk seeking to cross to Syria

Despit e pr ogress, Iran nuclear Despite progress, talks hit impasse M

AJOR powers and Iran were closer to a preliminary accord on reining in Tehran’s nuclear program as marathon talks ended yesterday, but they hit an impasse over key details such as the lifting of U.N. sanctions and Iran’s future atomic research.

The negotiators ended talks in the Swiss city of Lausanne in the early morning hours with an air of chaos, disunity and cacophony as delegations scrambled to get contradictory viewpoints across.

The six powers - the United States, Britain, France, Germany, Russia and China aim to stop Iran from gaining the capacity to develop a nuclear bomb in exchange for easing international sanctions that are crippling its economy. Iran says its nucle-

ar program is peaceful.

France’s foreign minister, often seen as making the most stringent demands of Iran, returned to Paris because things had not advanced enough for “immediate deal”.

But as top negotiators from the powers met Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif again on Wednesday, Russia and Iran expressed optimism that an initial agreement was within reach. British

Foreign Secretary Philip Hammond sounded a note of caution. “I think we have a broad framework of understanding, but there are still some key issues that have to be worked through,” he told the BBC.

RAQ yesterday de clared a “magnificent victory” over the Islamic State group in Tikrit, a key step in driving the militants out of their biggest strongholds. Iraqi Defense Minister Khalid al-Obeidi made the pronouncement, saying security forces have “accomplished their mission” in the monthlong offensive to rid Saddam Hussein’s hometown and the broader Salahuddin province of the militant group.

“We have the pleasure, with all our pride, to announce the good news of a magnificent victory,” Obeidi said in a video statement.

“Here we come to you, Anbar! Here we come to you, Nineveh, and we say it with full resolution, confidence, and persistence,” naming other provinces under the sway of the extremists.

Extremists from the Islamic State group seized Tikrit last summer during its advance across northern and western Iraq. The battle for Tikrit is seen as a key step toward eventually driving the militants out

URKEY has ar rest-ed nine British nationals on the Syrian border as they sought to illegally cross over from Turkey, the army said yesterday.

“Nine people of British nationality were arrested on the border trying to enter Syria from Turkey,” the army said in a statement on its website, adding that the arrests took place in the Hatay region of southern Turkey.

The army gave no further details on the identities and intentions of those arrested.

Turkey has in the last months been repeatedly criticised by its West-

ern allies for not doing enough to halt the flow across Turkish territory of European nationals seeking to join (IS) jihadists in Syria.

However it has made a number of arrests in recent months and insists it is doing all it can to control the border.

A group of nine British medical students of Sudanese origin went missing last month after travelling to Turkey with the apparent aim of crossing into Syria to join IS. Ankara was sharply criticised over the failure to stop three British teenage girls who crossed the Turkey-Syria border to join IS in February.

Thai militar militaryy go govvernment replaces mar tial la w martial law

T

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi (R) arrives at a hotel for a new round of nuclear talks on Iran, in Lausanne, Switzerland, 29 March 2015

Iraq declares vict or victor oryy o ovver IS

I

T

of Mosul, Iraq’s secondlargest city and the provincial capital of Nineveh.

Iraqi forces, including soldiers, police officers, Shiite militias and Sunni tribes, launched a large-scale operation to recapture Tikrit on March 2. Last week, the United States launched airstrikes on the embattled city at the request of the Iraqi government Recapturing Tikrit would be the biggest win so far for Baghdad’s Shiite-led government. The city is about 130 kilometers (80 miles) north of Baghdad and lies on the road connecting the capital to Mosul.

l-Jazeera English journalist Mohamed Fahmy, who remains in Egypt on bail while awaiting trial on terror charges, yesterday said Canada is refusing to issue him a new passport.

Fahmy, who was born in Egypt and is a naturalized Canadian citizen, was freed from jail in February.

He renounced his Egyptian

many fearing that it could give the military more power than it had before.

A US State Department representative, quoted

by Reuters news agency, expressed concern that the new measures would not ease curbs on basic rights. The representative said any new measures should also seek to allow freedom of expression and end practices such the trial of civilians in military courts as well as detentions without charge.

Yemeni Houthi ffight ight er ighter erss reach central Aden

H

Iraq’s Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi shows the premier carrying the national flag as he walks with Iraqi security forces in Tikrit, Iraq, yesterday.

Al-Jazeera journalist sa ys Canada says no nott issuing him passpor passportt

A

HAILAND’s military government has announced it is lifting martial law, 10 months after it was imposed. It was introduced in May 2014, shortly before the army staged a coup. Prime Minister Prayuth Chanocha announced the move in a televised statement and has said it will be replaced by a new security order.

However, the new measure has drawn considerable criticism, with

citizenship last year as a condition of any future release from Egypt.

Fahmy and two other journalists were charged with being part of a terrorist group and airing falsified footage.

They deny the charges.

Fahmy said his Canadian passport was confiscated when he was arrested in 2013. He said needs the passport to get married and has run

into problems at security checkpoints in Cairo.

Under his bail conditions, Fahmy must check in with police every day and cannot leave Egypt. He said he’s on a no-fly list.

“I was shocked to learn for the first time that Canada has been the obstacle in issuing a new passport for me,” Fahmy said in an email to The Associated Press.

OUTHI fighters and their army allies advanced in a column of tanks yesterday into a central district of the southern city of Aden, the main foothold of loyalists of President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi, witnesses said.

The Houthis’ military push into the Khor Maksar district happened despite a week of Saudiled air strikes as well as bombardment from naval vessels off the coast of Aden aimed at reversing relentless Houthi

gains on the battlefield.

The Shi’ite Muslim fighters and their ally, former president Ali Abdullah Saleh, emerged as the dominant force in Yemen after they took over the capital six months ago.

Aden residents saw large groups of fighters carrying rocket propelled grenades accompanied by tanks and trucks mounted with machine guns in Khor Maksar, which lies on narrow neck of land linking central Aden with the mainland.

Followers of the Houthi demonstrate against the Saudi-led air strikes on Yemen, yesterday.

VANGUARD, THURSDAY, APRIL 2 , 2015 — 57

African en xpresses concern o envvoy e expresses ovver EU migrant centre plans

A

Soldiers patrol at Niger’s Kabalewa refugees camp recently, sheltering Nigerians fleeing from Boko Haram attacks

orld Boko Haram fight: UN urges w world leaders to help Africa

T

HE United Nation Human Rights Council yesterday unanimously adopted a resolution calling on the i n t e r n a t i o n a l community to step up support to African countries fighting Boko Haram militants, accused of a litany of

atrocities.

The resolution urged the international community “to provide more active and multifaceted support for Cameroon, Chad, Niger, Nigeria and other states affected by actions of the terrorist group Boko Haram.”

Nigeria’s presidentelect Muhammadu Buhari, who won historic weekend elections, meanwhile stressed in Abuja Wednesday that his country’s resolve to beat the extremists.

“We shall spare no effort until we defeat terrorism,” he said.

FRICA’S envoy to the European Union yesterday warned that EU plans to process migrants in the countries they leave or transit on their way to Europe are “a dangerous approach.”

The EU is trying to persuade Niger, Tunisia, Egypt, Morocco and Turkey to pre-screen migrants and has launched a pilot project to send immigration officers abroad to help assess asylum demands.

African Union Ambassador Ajay Kumar Bramdeo told EU lawmakers that by outsourcing migrant management, the EU would be “shirking its own responsibility in receiving refugees and migrants, also in footing the bill for managing and controlling migration.”

More than 280,000 people entered the EU illegally last year, according to figures released Tuesday by the

EU’s border agency Frontex.

Thousands have taken to rickety boats from

conflict-torn Libya and Europe’s coast guards are unable to cope.

West African migrants sit exhausted after a night of heavy rain and hail that destroyed their tents near Gradsko, Macedonia recently.

Mbeki accused of using prosecutors against Zuma

F

ORMER

South

African President Thabo Mbeki used state prosecutors as a political tool against his then deputy Jacob Zuma, new court documents have revealed The National Prosecuting Authority filed the papers to block an opposition attempt to

reinstate corruption charges against President Zuma.

The multimillion dollars charges were controversially dropped on the eve of the 2009 elections.

Mr Zuma, who denies any wrongdoing, ultimately won those elections.

58—Vanguard, THURSDAY, APRIL 2 15 2,, 20 2015

BITS Bits Re: ‘NLC Crisis: Credibility burden of the rescheduled March 12 election'

I

HAVE read with shock your article with the above caption in the Vanguard of today, 26th March 2015. While it is your right to deploy your column to advancing whatever interest you choose, this must be done within the confines of truth and professionalism.

At no time did I confirm figures of accredited delegates at the reconvened conference to you as 3005. When you called me on phone, you wanted to know if the 3119 delegates invited to the conference all participated. I told you that some delegates did not turn up and that I could not give you the figures of delegates actually accredited since I did not have the records with me.

You then informed me that you spoke with the Chairman of the Credentals Committee, Dr. Nasir Fage and that he informed you that some unions did not present their delegates. I repeated that I could not give the details of accreditation without referring to the records.

It is, therefore, shocking that you have based your article on some arithmetical exercise based on figures which I purportedly corroborated. The number of accredited delegates is a matter of record. It will interest you to note that based on the records, advertorials carried in three newspapers (Thisday, March, 20, 2015, Daily Trust, March, 20, 2015 and The Sun, March 21, 2015) and issued under my hand specifically stated the number of accredited delegates as 3,105.

The correct information was, therefore, in the public domain before your article aimed at discrediting what all neutral observers have adjudged as transparent, free and fair elections. I hope you will use the same medium to set the records straight in the interest of truth and fairness.

Dr. Peter Ozo-Eson General Secretary

Oshiomhole is a year older GOVERNOR Adams Oshiomhole of Edo State and former President of Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, will be a year older on Saturday, April 4.

Oshiomhole who hails from Iyamho in Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State, was the President of NLC between 1999 and 2007 and his tenure as Congress’ president has remained a reference point in modern day trade unionism in the country where he impacted positively on the lives of the masses of the country and the working class in particular.

Task before Senator Ikenya, new Minister of Labour •Why he can’t disappoint Nigerians

By Victor Ahiuma-Young

I have come to consolidate on the victory you have obtained for this country, I promised not to disappoint Mr. President and I will not disappoint my state and Nigeria at large THOSE were the words of Senator Joel Danlami Ikenya, the new Nigerian Minister of Labour Productivity, while taking over from Alhaji Tanimu Turaki SAN, who supervised the ministry following the resignation of Chief Emeka Wogu, to contest the Abia State Governorship election.

While congratulating the Minister on his appointment and appreciating his enthusiasm over the new job, it is the opinion of Labour Vanguard that the minister needs to fully grasp the enormous challenge before him and keep his promise not to disappoint his principal, his state, also Nigerian workers and employers as well.

Labour Ministry: Ordinary, the ministry ought to be the most important and respected ministries in Nigeria because of its unique and vantage position in dealing with industrial issues affecting workers of other ministries, Parastatals and Agencies, MDA, among others.

But over the years, the ministry has been relegated to the background because successive ministers have failed to exert their authorities.

Necessary manpower As if that is not bad enough, the ministry in most times is starved of the needed funds to function.

Today, the all important Factory Inspectorate Division of the Ministry does not have the necessary manpower to function and the few hands lack the needed tools to work while factories owners are committing a lot of atrocities and going scot free to the detriment of hapless Nigerian workers.

Another department that if is failing to live up to expectations is the office of Registrar of Trade Unions. For over the years, the office has not been dealing with its over sight functions as it affects trade unions’ accounts, constitutions and so on. Many trade unions do not submit their accounts for scrutiny as required by law. To worsen the matter, some labour leaders abuse their constitutions at will without the

•Senator Joel Danlami Ikenya while taking over the affairs of the Federal Ministry of Labour and productivity from the then Supervising Minister Alhaji Tanimu Turaki. office of the registrar of trade unions querying or sanctioning them. Either they amend their constitutions to suit their personal aggrandizement, or trample on them with ease while the office of the registrar of trade unions look the other side. Hence we are witnessing sit-tight labour leaders who stay beyond their constitutional tenure and create problems in their unions. In some other instances, some will shamelessly transmute to General Secretary of their unions after serving their tenures as president.

Yet, the office of the registrar of trade unions does not see anything wrong in that.

While there is no doubt that the ministry has very capable hands beginning from the Permanent Secretary to do the right thing under conducive environment, there is no doubt there are those who needed to be reminded of their responsibilities and who should either shape up or shape out.

Many parastatals under the ministry, like the Industrial Arbitration Panel, IAP, have lost its usefulness.

The greatest challenge before Senator Ikenya is the evil of unfair labour practices plaguing the nation’s industrial set up today which casualisation of workers is at the top

Unbiased umpire: To start with, the new minister must see himself as unbiased umpire in all labour issues especially in relations to workers’ disputes with government, or private employers. No matter the circumstances or temptations, he must look at every issue before him objectively and in its merit and pass judgment without fear or favour to gain the confidence of stakeholders especially organized labour and private employers. One of the easiest ways of losing confidence is assuming a spokesperson for government once the issue at hand concerns government and unions.

Though the Minister Alhaji Tanimu Turaki SAN while handing over had declared that “when I leave this office today I can look back, beat my chest and say I came, I saw and I conquered”, Alhaji Turaki might have forgotten that he came into office and met a united Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, but left a factionalised NLC for Senator Ikenya to deal with.

This is an onerous task to handle and how the new minister addresses it will go a long way in shaping the success or otherwise of his tenure. It is in your enlightened self interest to remain neutral and does all within his powers to reconcile the factions.

They are children of the same parents and like a quarrel between husband and wife, outsider’s intervention is done with caution because once they settle in their bedroom, the outsider may find himself in trouble. This is not the first time Congress is factionalised. It happened in 1988 and it came out of it stronger.

Unfair labour practices: The greatest challenge before Senator Ikenya is the evil of unfair labour

practices plaguing the nation’s industrial set up today which casualisation of workers is at the top. In most sectors of the economy, the increasing rate of casualisation of workers in both public and private sector is alarming. In fact, in the private sector, permanent workers are being retrenched only for them to be re-engaged as casual workers, contract workers and outsourced workers. This definitely, is compounding poverty among working families.

Employment policy These forms of employment policy are dominant in the oil industry, banking, telecommunication, manufacturing and service sectors. There are agonizing and dehumanizing stories of workers spending over 20 years as casual in the oil and gas industry and financial sectors.

In the oil industry for example, there are several unimplemented agreements and understandings between the employers and trade unions on the auspices of the labour ministry. This has remained a major threat to industrial peace.

Another dangerous trend is what is known as “slave labour” in most manufacturing companies run by Indians, Lebanese, Chinese and other Asians nationals. Investigations have revealed that these employers have no respect for extant labour laws or minimum international standards. With their Nigerians collaborators, these employers breach every rule and regulation with impunity and have no regard for human dignity.

The issue of health and safety at the workplaces are relegated to the background.

Vanguard, THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2015—59

PenCom moves to capture 50m informal sector workers •In synergy with textile union Savings Accounts, RSAs, as equity contribution for residential mortgages and support their businesses and benefit from other micro-credit schemes and special awareness programmes affiliated to the scheme, he said.

He stated that additional benefits to informal sector workers included the cover provided under the Pension Protection Fund, PPF, explaining that under this arrangement, government would bridge shortfalls or financial losses from investment of their accumulated retirement savings and guarantee them minimum pension in retirement, irrespective of how much they were able to save before retiring.

By Victor Ahiuma-Young

N

ATIONAL Pension Commission, PenCom, has ramped up action towards capturing informal sector of the economy into the Contributory Pension Scheme, CPS, as it commenced a nationwide interface with workers in the informal sector ahead of the commencement of the Micropension scheme in the sector.

Micro-Pension is a financial programme for the provision of pension services to informal sector workers.

The programme, expected to take off before the end of this year, has been successful in India, Kenya, Ghana and other countries.

Addressing participants at the one day workshop on the CPS for self-employed tailors and garment workers affiliated to the National Union of Textile, Garment and Tailoring Workers of Nigeria, NUTGTWN in Lagos, DirectorGeneral of PenCom, Mrs. Chinelo Anohu-Amazu, said the Federal Government plans to bring over 50 million workers in the informal sector into the CPS, using the Micro Pension initiative.

She said government hoped to bring at least 20 million informal sector workers into the scheme in the next four years and assured that necessary arrangements are being put in place to ensure a smooth take off of the scheme later this year.

“Take care of your financial needs in old age now that you are working, not later. Whatever you gain here please share with your colleagues at the branches and local units,” Mrs. AnohuAmazu admonished.

Also speaking, PenCom’s Head

Dr. Farouk Aminu, PenCom's Head of Research and Corporate Strategy Department, President of NUTGTWN, Oladele Hunsu and the union's General Secretary, Issa Aremu, at the workshop in Lagos. of Research and Corporate Strategy Department, Dr. Farouk Aminu, while presenting a paper entitled “Contributory Pension for

Take care of your financial needs in old age now that you are working, not later.

Whatever you gain here please share with your colleagues at the branches and local units

Self Employed Tailors and Garment Workers,” highlighted the features of the CPS and the Pension Reform Act, PRA, 2014 emphasising coverage and access to retirement benefits under the scheme and the Pension Protection Fund, PPF. He assured the workers that PenCom understood that the informal sector is characterised by the absence of formal structures, low and irregular incomes except those on fixed salaries, highly mobile and flexible jobs, lack of permanent work address in many instances and was ready to ease the stress associated with registration and participation for the target workers.

Farouk said the above peculiarities required special registration and customer service platforms and that the Commission was anticipating erratic contributions, remittances

and withdrawal arrangements.

PenCom, he explained, hoped to make the scheme flexible to accommodate workers in the informal sector, noting that the Commission was ready to partner trade associations, NGOs, and religious bodies to make the scheme work.

The Head of Research and Corporate Strategy at PenCom also highlighted some of the benefits the informal sector could reap by participating in the scheme, saying in addition to providing them income in their old age and inculcating a savings culture through highly protected and regulated investment, the scheme would afford them the opportunity to connect with other programmes of government while helping finance infrastructure across the country.

They could as well use the balance in their Retirement

Pension operators According to him, this initiative would be funded by an annual subvention of one per cent of monthly wage of Federal Government employees, annual levy on PenCom and pension operators as well as pension fund investment income.

On his part, President NUTGTWN, Oladele Hunsu said “PenCom is here to tell us how it plans to bring Tailors and other self-employed persons into the Contributory Pension Scheme and we are expected to share with them our experiences, concerns and observations on how to make this possible.”

Corroborating, General Secretary of the union, Issa Aremu, recalled that National Provident Fund, NPF, that was established to provide pension for workers in the private sector was scrapped because of its shortcomings.

At last, relief comes for over 85,000 military pensioners

By Kingsley Omonobi

R

ELIEF has finally come the way of over 85, 000 military pensioners who have been languishing in pains and protesting non-payment of arrears of their 33% increment, from 2010 to 2013, as the federal government has commenced payment of the arrears.

The payment, Pension and You, gathered would be paid quarterly and the money for the first of this year that will be ending by this month has already been paid into the pensioners bank accounts.

Recall that military pensioners had before now protested severally including two attempts to protest to the Presidential Villa and the

National Assembly but, they were stopped by soldiers of the Guards Brigade in November 2014 and January this year, with some of the pensioners threatening to cause problems during the 2015 elections.

However, the issue according to the Chairman of the Military Pensions Board, MPB, Air Vice Marshal Mohammed Rabiu Dabo, had been addressed with government providing fund for the settlement of one year arrears while budgetary allocation would be made to settle the remaining two years from 2016.

According to Dabo, the payment of the arrears spanning July 2010 to July 2013 would to be done in batches hence the first instalment which

Chairman, Military Pension Board, AVM Mohammed Dabo

covers 2010, would be paid this year but on a quarterly basis.

He explained that the first quarter payment for 2015 which ends this March had

commenced with many military pensioners already getting alerts of their arrears of the 33% since February.

While noting that the next quarter starting from April would see retired soldiers receiving the next batch, AVM Dabo said when the arrears of 2010 was cleared, government would make provision for payment of arrears for the remaining two years.

According to him, the pensioners started enjoying the 33% increase since 2013 , but it was the arrears that had been dragging which government had now spread its payment to three years.

The Chairman noted that the National Salaries and Income

and Wages Commission in late 2014, released a circular in which it was clarified that the arrears due to pensioners was only 33%, due to the huge financial outlay of the arrears and the scarce resources available.

He said, “The money will be released in quarterly tranches starting from first quarter of 2015, until the arrears are defrayed. I am happy to inform you that the board has received the first release of the funds and payment to all affected retirees has been completed for the first quarter of 2015. The action of the government in this regard underscores her great concern to the welfare of retirees.”

60— Vanguard, THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2015

ECONOMY

By Babajide Komolafe, Peter Egwuatu, Franklin Alli, Godwin Oritse, Rosemary Onuoha, Naomi Uzor &, Jonah Nwokpoku

L

AGOS—THE incoming government of Major General Mohammadu Buhari (rtd) should come out with a blue print for the economy that will enhance the living standard of Nigerians, ensure acceleration of reforms in the oil and gas sector in order to attract more investments in both the upstream and downstream segments of the sector, and wage sustainable war on corruption.

These were the expectations of operators in the various sectors of the economy from the incoming government.

LCCI President

President, Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, LCCI, Alhaji Remi Bello said: “The incoming government should ensure acceleration of reforms in the oil and gas sector in order to attract more private investments in both the upstream and downstream segments of the sector. The chamber urges the incoming administration to address the fundamental of the high cost of doing business and low productivity. Ensure a level playing field for all investors across all sectors with regard to import tariffs, funding opportunities, tax incentives.”

On his part, Chief Chuku Wachuku, former DirectorGeneral, National Directorate of Employment and immediate past President of National Association of Small Scale Industry, NASSI, said: “The new President must partner with the broader organised private sector and not select five per cent which cannot create the impetus for growth.”

NAGAFF boss

According to National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders, NAGAFF, Dr. Boniface Aniebonam, “The emphasis right now should be sustainable attack on the issues of corruption.

The new President, according to Mr. Tunji Olugbodi, Managing Director, Verdant Zeal, should introduce policies and implementation of those policies which will guarantee a change that is more pragmatic.

Euro Global

Mr. Felix Aighobai, Director, Sales, Euro Global Foods and Distilleries Limited and Director, Membership and Public Relations, Nigeria Association of Small and Medium Enterprises, NASME, Nerus Ekezie, however, advised Buhari to start from where his predecessor stopped.

He said: “We are particular on continuation on most of the sound economic policies, like the agricultural transformation

CONGRATULATION: From left; Alhaji Abdulazzi Yari, former Vice President, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, congratulating President-elect, General Muhammadu Buhari, on his victory in last Saturday's Presidential election, at his House in Abuja.

Photo: Gbemiga Olamikan

Our expectations from Buhari presidency —Stakeholders Economic blueprint that will enhance living standards Reforms in oil and gas sector Sustainable anti-corruption measures and the various SME development initiatives, including the sustainability of the SME intervention funds and the establishment of the Development Bank of Nigeria.”

ANLCA chief

National President, Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents, ANLCA, Prince Olayiwola Shittu, said: “All the reports of all the committees that have been piling dust, whether seen or unseen but without any action taking place should be looked into.

It is not a matter of setting up further committees but they should look at previous committees' reports.”

He also expressed hope that the Buhari administration would review the implementation of the controversial national automotive policy.

E-Commerce operators said that they expect the new President to introduce polices that would reignite the interest of foreign investors in Nigeria.

According to the President/ CEO, Shoptomydoor.com, an international online shop, Nduka Udeh, “the President-elect must through his anti corruption stance, bring more transparency into the business landscape in order to drive foreign direct investment.”

F o u n d e r / C E O , Privateproperty.com.ng, Femi Taiwo, said Buhari’s victory will give way to foreign direct investment through capital inflows in our stock markets and investments in our manufacturing and power sectors.

Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers, CIS, Mr. Emeka Madubuike, Chairman, Association of Stockbroking Houses of Nigeria, ASHON, and Mr. Victor Ogiemwonyi, Chairman, Association of Issuing Houses of Nigeria, AIHN, said: “At present, the Nigerian capital market is underutilized relative to its absorptive capacity.

Therefore, the Federal Government’s goal of diversification of the economy would be reinforced if the capital market is deepened to enable it fund the capital expenditure over the short term to medium term period.”

Capital market operators

Okumagba

Capital Market operators on their part called on the incoming government to address the infrastructure gaps in the economy by using the capital market instruments.

The coalition of capital market operators under the aegis of the capital market alliance, which comprises of Albert Okumagba, President

Okumagba said: “The core capital market operators should work with the regulators to come with pragmatic timetable which will be endorsed by the Federal Government for the commencement of viable Commodity Exchanges which are either privately owned or government owned.”

Mr. Ogiemwonyi said: “Government borrowing rate

in the capital market should drop to avoid crowding out of funds in the capital market so as to make the market attractive for private sector to raise funds.”

Insurance operators

On the expectations of the insurance industry from the incoming government, insurance operators advised that economic growth should be the main focus of the new government. They urged the incoming President to come out with a blue print for the economy that will enhance the living standard of Nigerians.

Director General of Nigerian Insurers Association, Mr. Sunday Thomas, said: “We expect increased government patronage of insurance, compliance with compulsory insurances as well as insurance of government assets, as well as review of the mode of taxation on insurance services. In all, we expect the new government to build on the achievement of the previous administration.”

Vanguard, THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2015 — 61

Falcons now to play Mali April 10 T

HE 11th All-Africa Games final qualifying round, return leg match between Nigeria’s Super Falcons and the Senior Women’s Team of Mali will now be played at the National Stadium, Abuja on Friday, April 10.

General Secretary of the Nigeria Football Federation, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi told thenff.com that a letter to this effect has been sent to the Mali Football Federation for its information and necessary action.

The Confederation of African Football, organizers of the Men and Women Football Tournaments of the 11th All-Africa Games, has already permitted the NFF to host the match within the period of Friday, April 10 – Sunday, April 12.

Already, a full house has been recorded in the Falcons’ camp in Abuja as the African champions prepare for the crucial return leg, which guarantees the winner a place at the Women’s Football Tournament of the 11th All-Africa Games that is scheduled for CongoBrazzaville, September 3-18 this year.

L

Super Falcons players

AAG: Our preparations in order — AFN

BY BEN EFE

A

THLETICS Federation of Nigeria technical director, Omatseye Nesiama disclosed that Nigeria’s preparations

for the All Africa Games and the World Championships have not suffered any dislocations, because of the political climate in the country.

Navy Commodore

Heineken UEFA Champions League finale winners emerge at this bar and as fate

T

HIRTEEN lucky N i g e r i a n Heineken fans are now set to enjoy a once-in-alifetime experience as this year’s UEFA Champions League draws to a close.The lucky Heineken fans who were amongst the over 3000 UEFA football fans that took part in the raffle draws across Nigeria have won an all-expense paid trip to Heineken’s world-famous Ibiza Finale, where fans converge from all over the world to watch the UEFA Champions League final match. They

will also enjoy lavish beach parties on the exotic island of Ibiza, a lush tourist destination off the coast of Spain. Other winners of the raffle draw took home various premium quality consolation prizes.

For Daniel Ogar, an Abuja-based Arsenal fan, the dream trip will soothe the pain of seeing his team knocked out of the tournament.

He enthused, “I have never been part of any raffle draw event but, this evening, I linked up with my friends

Enyeama Continues from BP know how long I can go so there has to be someone to take over.

The 32-year old has been Nigeria’s first choice goalkeeper since making his debut for the Super Eagles in a friendly against Kenya in 2002.

He was temporarily displaced by Austin Ejide in 2008 under Berti C M Y K

Airtel, Zenith Sports partner Edo FA

Vogts, but regained his position soon after the German coach left.

Enyeama is unarguably one of the best goalkeepers Nigeria has ever produced and is often seen in the class of Emmanuel Okala and Peter Rufai, two other great goalkeepers the country has produced.

would have it, I am a winner!

Stanley Mgbemere had similarly arrived the aptly named Abuja Dream Recreation Centre with hopes of watching Arsenal defy the odds.

Nesiama stated that athletes are currently in camp training in Abuja, while those based in the USA are also stepping up their training.

“Our preparations are on course. For now, our focus is on the world relays billed for Bahamas in May. “Some of the homebased are camping in Abuja while those in the US are also doing well.

At the end of the day we are going to pick a team for the World Relays,” Nesiama said

Ikhana

Continues from BP second leg tie in Alexandria on Sunday against Smouha SC. The People’s Elephant settled for only a 1-0 win in Aba courtesy of Raphael Boumsong 65th minute header as the visitors employed tough defence tactics.

The head coach of the Aba Millionaires, Kadiri Ikhana said that they plan to travel to Alexandria on Friday in other not to suffer too much from the effect of the cold weather that may slow down their performance against Smouha.

“We will be ready for the weather and we have made plans to curtail the effect of the cold. We will be needing three full

weeks to stay in Egypt to properly acclimatize to the cold but since we don’t have such time to waste in foreign land, we plan to get there late just for the match,” Ikhana said.

“We will get there on Friday and do lots of warm up and running so that the players will be fired up and the weather won’t have much effect on them.”

Enyimba are the most successful Nigerian club in the Champions League having won two titles in the competition in 2003 and 2004 both at the expense of north African club duo of Ismaila SC of Egypt and Etoile du Sahel of Tunisia.

yesterday.

Nigeria won a bronze in the women 4x400m at the maiden World Relays last year.

According to Commodore Nesiama the AFN is hoping to improve on that result.

“From what I have seen of our athletes’ performances home and abroad we can improve on that result.

“It is after this that we would now turn our attention to the All African Games and the W o r l d Championships.

“And for sure at the World Championships in Beijing our aim is to win more medals than we did in Russia,” he added.

•Regina

EADING sports wear marketers, Zenith Sports have pledged to provide two sets of medals as well as kit the ball boys for the final match of this year’s Edo State Football Association Federation Cup. Chairman of the Edo State FA, Frank Ilaboya also disclosed that the sportswear leading company will also be providing three special awards for outstanding players and officials.

The CEO of Zenith Sports, Paul Maduakor, told newsmen that he was supporting the Edo FA because he believed the board, headed by Frank Ilaboya, has got the vision and the drive to take football to the next level in the state.

Similarly, Airtel has joined the list of supporters of the tournament.

The telecommunications giant will be providing T shirts, SIM cards and other branded souvenirs for spectators. Airtel’s Trade Marketing Manager, South, Delta zone, Abiodun Agoro said his company is happy to identify with the FA in its revival plans. “We decided to identify with the Edo FA as a way of giving back to the society,’’ he said.

The Edo FA Cup final comes up on Wednesday, April 8,2015 at the Ogbe Stadium, Benin City.

Insurance FC, the defending champions, are already out having been defeated by Inneh Stars in the knock out stage.

Vanguard, THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2015 — 62

Cape Verde shock Portugal P

ORTUGAL coach Fernando Santos believes his side were distracted as they fell to a shock 2-0 home defeat to Cape Verde Islands in Tuesday’s friendly.

Santos fielded an entirely different starting XI to that which beat Serbia 2-1 in their Euro 2016 qualifier on Sunday, with Cristiano Ronaldo left out.

And Cape Verde Islands made them pay as first-half goals from Odair Fortes and Gege sealed a surprise win for the visitors at the Estadio Antonio Coimbra da Mota.

Portugal’s misery was compounded when defender Andre Pinto was sent off on the hour mark for a foul on Heldon, and Santos told O Jogo: “There were more positives than negatives, but some things were missing. We didn’t move the ball.

The team was OK but we weren’t aggressive.

“In those 10 minutes of the first half, we looked distracted or something and at this level of competition you pay dearly for that.

“Our attitude in the second half was stronger. Even with 10 men, the team was tough and continued attacking.

The subs refreshed the team and they kept up the attack.

“We knew they [Cape Verde] were motivated.

Matches with rival teams who speak Portuguese are always that way. We are technically on point, but we lack the rest.''

•Townsend C M Y K

•Action recorded during the match. Cape Verde won 2-0.

Mali hold Black Stars

T

HE Black Stars played out a 1-1 draw in their international friendly against Mali on Tuesday evening.

The match was Ghana’s second friendly in France after losing 2-1 to Senegal over the weekend.

Ashgold Goalkeeper Fatau Dauda was in post for the Black Stars with Jeffrey Schlupp, Daniel Amartey, Rabiu Mohammed and Agyemang Badu all starting the match.

After a goalless first half, Agyemang Badu shot Ghana into the lead in the second half from Yiadom Boakye’s pass.

The Malians were however awarded a penalty in the 71st minute and Bakary Sako converted to give the Eagles their equaliser as the game ended in a draw.

Spain stung by speedy Dutch start

Townsend saves England A NDROS Townsend came off the bench to rescue England from defeat with a stunning strike in Turin.

Harry Kane made a big impact after his introduction from the bench against Lithuania, but on Tuesday night it was his Tottenham teammate who stole the limelight.

Nine minutes after entering the pitch,

Townsend drove a fierce 20-yard drive past Gianluigi Buffon to earn England a creditable 11 draw against Italy at the Juventus Stadium.

England, with Kane in their starting XI for the first time, were poor in the first half.

Wayne Rooney hit the bar, but Italy had the best chances and kept the ball superbly.

Phil Jones looked like a fish out of water playing in the holding midfield role and he gifted Italy the lead when he allowed Giorgio Chiellini to brush him aside and set up Graziano Pelle for the opener.

The Italy striker may have gone 13 Premier League games without a goal, but he glanced past Joe Hart easily after being left unmarked in the box.

England lacked rhythm, width and flair in the first half, but after the introduction of Ross Barkley and Townsend, they looked far more threatening and ended the game on top.

The improved performance was not enough to yield a second goal, but Roy Hodgson will still be happy that his post-World Cup unbeaten run remains intact thanks to Townsend’s third international goal in seven appearances.

•Sneijder

Tottenham ready to offload Adebayor

T

OTTENHAM will s u b s i d i s e Emmanuel Adebayor’s £100,000-per-week wages to finally get rid of the striker this summer.

The Togolese striker is out of favour at White Hart Lane, with both the player and manager Mauricio Pochettino happy for the hitman to leave once the transfer window re-opens.

But Adebayor’s wages will prove a key factor this summer, with the striker unwilling to take anything less than his current £5.2million salary before accepting a move.

However, Spurs are

•Ayew Interestingly injured Ghana midfielder Kwadwo Asamoah was in the stands at the Stade Sébastien Charléty to support the team.

The versatile Juventus midfielder had to undergo knee surgery about three months ago and could return to the national team for the upcoming 2017 AFCON qualifiers.

now willing to pay a percentage of Adebayor ’s wages next season in an attempt to ensure he leaves.

Chairman Daniel Levy has shown a reluctance to take such measures in the past, but is so keen to show Adebayor the door that he has now changed tact.

Adebayor will enter the final 12 months of his deal this summer and will be made available for loan or a permanent move.

A loan switch may suit the former Arsenal man knowing he could net a lucrative free transfer at the end of his Spurs deal in 2016.

GOALS in the opening 16 minutes from Stefan de Vrij and Davy Klaassen were easily enough for the Netherlands to defeat a still out-of-sorts Spain side. Neither team impressed over much after that; the Dutch were happy enough to hold onto their deserved early lead while the visitors huffed, puffed and made the odd chance, never really showing the intensity or organisation required to find a way through the home defence.

Before the game, the Spain camp especially had been keen to play down the idea that this was about revenge for the 5-1 hammering they received when the teams met in their opening group game of last summer ’s World Cup. And there was no sense here of La Roja having their pride stung and looking to show they were coming back to their previous level of confidence or control.

Both teams made plenty of mistakes on the ball during the opening stages but the Dutch were much more clinical about punishing errors in the opposition defence. The opening goal when a corner was not fully cleared. Wesley Sneijder whipped in a superb cross, and de Vrij (who also scored in Salvador last summer) got ahead of a sleeping Raul Albiol to head past a stranded David De Gea.

Vanguard, THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2015 — 63

Danilo, the Real deal •Pens six-year Bernabéu deal

R

EAL Madrid have reached an agreement with Porto to buy their Brazilian fullback Danilo, who will join the La Liga club next season, the European champions said on Twitter on Tuesday.

The Spanish giants added the 23-year-old Brazil international, who plays mainly at right back, has a sixyear contract until June 30, 2021 at the Bernabeu.

The fee for Danilo is 31.5 million euros ($33.82 million), Porto said in a statement to the Portuguese stock exchange.

Danilo started his

career at Brazilian club America before joining Santos and then moving to Porto in January 2012 where he has won two Portuguese league titles.

Danilo, who won a silver medal at the 2012 London Olympics, has become a regular for Brazil since Dunga took over as manager after last year’s World Cup. Danilo has also helped Julen Lopetegui’s Porto side reach the Champions League quarter-finals where they will play Bayern Munich next month.

He will compete for a starting place in Madrid with Daniel Carvajal and former Liverpool defender Alvaro Arbeloa.

B

Mancini targets Toure this summer F O R M E R Manchester City coach Roberto Mancini has hinted at signing City ’s Yaya Toure and James Milner during the upcoming summer transfer window.

Reports have surfaced that Mancini has assured Milan’s supporters that he will bring a top player to the Italian giants.

The Italian coach was at the helm at the Etihad between 2009 and 2013 and had spoken strongly about bringing the Cote D’Ivoire skipper to Inter saying Yaya wants to follow him to Serie A. Milner, on the other hand, is out of contract at the end of the season and sources have indicated that he could be open to leaving the Citizens.

•Toure C M Y K

While responding to fans’ questions on Inter’s Facebook page, Mancini listed a number of summer transfer targets, including the City duo and said sporting director Piero Ausilio is doing his utmost to bring one of them to the San Siro.

“In the summer we’ll sign a top player, because we are Inter, a top team,” Mancini said.

“I like (Torino’s Matteo) Darmian, Milner ’s contract is expiring, he’ll decide what’s best for him.''

MAN OF THE MOMENT.... Real expensive man — Danilo

Hummels denies Man Utd transfer intention B O R U S S I A Dortmund captain Mats Hummels has denied promising to join Manchester United, while Lazio defender Stefan De Vrij has ruled out a future move to Old Trafford after quashing speculation regarding his future.

Reports emerged on 31 March that Hummels had promised former United manager Sir Alex Ferguson three years ago he would move to the club as the Germany World Cup winner continues to be linked with a £36m ($53m) move to the 20time Premier League champions.

But the despite the 26year-old regularly flirting with the idea with a move away from Dortmund, Hummels has

Ribery: Bayern should sign Hazard

denied any interest in a move to United, labelling the reports as an “invention”.

“Just to be clear. This

alleged ‘promise’ is simply an invention... and that is saying it nicely,” he posted via his official Twitter account.

Walcott to make Chelsea switch

R

EPORTS yesterday suggest that Chelsea are closely monitoring the contract situation between Theo Walcott and Arsenal with just one season remaining on his current deal. The report reveals that both Chelsea and Liverpool now have an interest in the 26-year-old England international who has found opportunities scarce at the Emirates this season.

Matt Hughes of the Times has revealed the interest from Chelsea who last tested the resolve of Arsenal when his last contract entered its final twelve months but the forward chose to sign a new deal.

Walcott is known for his electric pace, balance and technique but a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament forced the player out for six months and he now finds it difficult to get games. With Sanchez, Ozil, Cazorla and Giroud performing well this year and it’s going to be difficult fitting back in to a squad that has moved on.

Walcott has made just 8 league appearances this season and needs the games to return to get the required match fitness which leaves him in a difficult situation.

•Hazard

AYERN Munich winger Franck Ribery says the Bundesliga champions should make an approach for Chelsea star Eden Hazard.

In an interview with Sport Bild, the Frenchman praised former Chelsea man Kevin De Bruyne, currently plying his trade in the Bundesliga with high-flying Wolfsburg.

But he reserved special praise for Hazard, who he believes would suit Bayern more as they have fewer counterattacking opportunities than the likes of Wolfsburg and therefore much less space to operate in.

Speaking to Sport Bild, Ribery said: “[Hazard] attacks all of the time. He loves to run at his opponent. But he plays at Chelsea.

Ribery also joked that: “this could be very expensive for Bayern.”

Hazard signed a new long-term contract at Chelsea in February that made him one of the club’s highest earners and will keep him at Stamford Bridge until the summer of 2020.

Vanguard, THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2015

Enyeama: Going!

Going!! ….

•Enyeama

F

OLLOWING his declaration on Tuesday that he is ready to become Nigeria’s number one goalkeeper, Super Eagles fringe goalkeeper Daniel Akpeyi may have received a boost as captain and current first choice ‘keeper, Vincent Enyeama has said the country must start preparing someone to

MY FACE—Martin Skrtel catches Daniel Kolar in the face with a high boot during Slovakia’s 1-0 win over Czech Republic

Ikhana sure of Enyimba chances N

IGERIA’s

flagbearer in the Caf

Champions League, Enyimba FC have reiterated their

conviction that they won’t be overwhelmed by the cold weather in

Egypt as they strive to hold on to their 1-0 lead ahead of the first round,

•Ikhana

take over from him.

Enyeama, who featured in his 100th game for Nigeria in a friendly against Uganda last Wednesday, say he’d love to keep on playing for as long as possible, but admits he’ll have to give way at some point.

“I tell you the truth, I will love to stay as long as possible but at some time, you need to let it go. You need to let others take over,” he said.

“I really wish I can go on forever but I can’t.

Nigeria should start grooming someone to take over from me, and that is what I wish.

“But for now I don’t Continues on Page 61

QUICK CROSSWORD

TODAY'S

PUZZLE

YESTER DAY'S ANSWERS YESTERDAY'S

ACROSS 1 Rescind (6) 5 Fiery (6) 8 Killer (8) 9 Intend (4) 10 Vitality (3) 12 Staid (5) 15 Damp (3) 17 Serpent (3) 18 Consumed (3) 19 Devil (3) 20 Eject (5) 21 Cur (3) 22 Epoch (3) 23 Ovum (3) 24 Spike (3) 26 Stormed (5) 29 Stray (3) 33 Leer (4) 34 Pervade (8) 35 Drive (6) 36 Liniment (6)

DOWN 2 Follow (5) 3 Cheese (4) 4 Lariat (5) 5 Taut (5) 6 Incline (4) 7 Angry (5) 10 Cost (5) 11 Examination (5) 12 Javelin (5) 13 Fetch (5) 14 Assessed (5) 15 Jam (5) 16 Animal (5) 25 Boring-tool (5) 27 Horrify (5) 28 Enlist (5) 30 Proportion (5) 31 Ooze (4) 32 Trial (4)

YESTERDAY'S SOLUTIONS ACROSS: 1, Chic 4, Art 6, Spar 8, Delete 9, Advice 10, War 12, Habit 14, Great 15, Caged 18, Severe 20, Idiocy 24, Tepid 26, Stand 28, Genus 30, Ode 32, Senior 33, Salute 34, Here 35, Lay 36, Yell.

DOWN: 2, Hyena 3, Crevice 4, Anew 5, Tear 6, Sever 7, Achaic 11, Ape 12, Has 13, Tar 16, Get 17, Dip 19, Extreme 21, Dig 22, Ideally 23, Yes 25, End 27, Noise 29, Until 30, Oral 31, Espy.

How to Play Sudoku

P

lace a number (1-9) in each blank cell. (No line can have two of the same number).

Each row (nine lines from left to right), column, (also nine lines from top to bottom) and 3 X 3 block within a bold block (nine blocks) contains number from 1 through 9. This means that no number can appear twice in any block, column or row.

No mathematics is involved – no adding, subtraction, division or multiplication, just plain logic and your imagination.

Printed and Published by VANGUARD MEDIA LIMITED, Vanguard Avenue, Kirikiri Canal, P.M.B.1007, Apapa. Phone: Newsroom: 018773962. Deputy Editor: 01-4548355. Advert Dept Hotline: 014544821; Abuja: 09-2341102, 09-2342704. E-mail: editor@vanguardngr.com, news@vanguardngr.com, letters@vanguardngr.com. Advert:advertproduction@yahoo.com Website: www.vanguardngr.com (ISSN 0794-652X) Editor: MIDENO BAYAGBON. Phone: 01-7742861, All correspondence to P.M.B. 1007, Apapa Lagos.

C M Y K